When Disaster Strikes: How to Put Out a Dumpster Fire

Understanding Dumpster Fire Hazards

Dumpster fires can occur unexpectedly and pose significant risks. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to prevent and manage them to ensure safety and minimize damage. By understanding the common causes and implementing effective prevention strategies, you can greatly reduce the likelihood of a fire. This guide offers practical advice on preventing dumpster fires and outlines steps to take if one occurs, ensuring you are well-prepared for any situation.

Preventing Dumpster Fires

1. Proper Disposal of Materials

You can effectively prevent dumpster fires by ensuring that hazardous or flammable materials never get placed in dumpsters. These materials ignite easily and cause significant fires. Avoid disposing of the following common flammable items:

• • • • • • Paints and solvents
          • Gasoline and other fuels
          • Propane tanks
          • Chemicals and cleaners
          • Batteries

You can find a complete list of prohibited items in our Dumpster FAQ when you’re ready to get started. Instead, dispose of these items according to local hazardous waste guidelines. For example, some stores have recycling programs for batteries, while paint shops can guide you on proper disposal methods for anything you acquire on their premises. Many auto shops will accept car batteries at a free or reduced cost, and tired can be repurposed as above-ground planters or put out for your town’s bulk collection. These items not only pose a danger to the dumpster on your premises but also risk the safety of the driver transporting your dumpster and the landfill personnel if a fire starts onsite.

**Never dispose of fireworks or fire ashes in the dumpster. These stay hot for a long time and can easily ignite a dumpster fire hours after disposal.** 

2. Maintain a Clean Area Around the Dumpster

Keeping the area surrounding the dumpster clear of debris and combustible materials can significantly reduce the risk of a fire. Ensure that you keep vegetation, trash, and other flammable items at a safe distance from the dumpster. Regularly inspect and clean the area to enhance safety and efficiency while using the dumpster. Doing so carries the added bonus of simplifying the removal process, as the area surrounding the unit will already be clear for the truck to pick up your dumpster. 

3. Implement Smoking Policies

Smoking near dumpsters commonly causes fires, so it’s essential to implement and enforce a strict no-smoking policy in these areas. Clearly post no-smoking signs and educate employees, tenants, and customers about the dangers of disposing of lit cigarettes in or near dumpsters. This can significantly reduce the risk of fire.

4. Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Regularly inspecting dumpsters for signs of damage or potential hazards can help prevent fires. Look for leaks, cracks, or other issues that could contribute to a fire risk. If you notice any concerning signs, call the hauler directly who supplied your unit, or contact us so we can help resolve the issue.

What to Do If a Dumpster Fire Occurs

Despite taking preventive measures, dumpster fires can still happen. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is vital for safety.

1. Call Emergency Services

If a dumpster fire occurs, immediately call 911. Do not attempt to extinguish the fire yourself, as dumpster fires can be unpredictable and dangerous. Trained firefighters have the equipment and expertise to handle the situation safely.

2. Close the Lid if Possible

If the dumpster has a hinged lid and it’s safe to do so, close the lid to help contain the fire. This can prevent the fire from spreading to nearby areas. However, do not endanger yourself or others in the process. If the fire is already intense, wait for emergency responders. In the case of a roll-off dumpster, do not spend time attempting to find something to cover your unit with.

3. Do Not Open a Closed Lid

Conversely, if the lid of your commercial dumpster is already closed and a fire is burning inside, do not open the lid. Opening the lid can create a backdraft, intensifying the fire and causing it to spread rapidly. Wait for the firefighters to arrive and handle the situation.

4. Assess the Damage

After the fire has been extinguished, assess the damage to the dumpster and surrounding area. Dumpster fires often result in the destruction of the dumpster itself, including melted lids, damaged paint, and warped metal. If the dumpster was a rental through ASAP Marketplace, contact us promptly to report the damage and arrange for a replacement.

Preventive Measures Moving Forward

After experiencing a dumpster fire, take the opportunity to review and improve your fire prevention measures. Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire and implement additional safety protocols if needed. Furthermore, educate employees and tenants on fire safety practices and ensure everyone understands the importance of following the established guidelines.

Ensuring Safety and Peace of Mind

Ultimately, dumpster fires can be both dangerous and costly, but you can minimize their impact with proper precautions and prompt action. ASAP Marketplace is dedicated to helping you maintain a safe and efficient project site, starting with minimizing the risk of dumpster fires. By following the advice outlined in this guide, you can significantly reduce the chances of a dumpster fire and ensure a safer environment for everyone.

For more information on renting roll-off dumpsters and other site services, visit ASAP Marketplace. Click here to get a quote for your rental today and ensure your site is equipped with reliable, safe, and efficient solutions.