The Cape May County Fire Marshal's Office is alerting residents to the serious fire risk posed by propane-powered weed-burning torches when used near residential structures. Over the past few weeks, multiple fires in Cape May County have been traced directly to this equipment, resulting in significant structural damage to homes.

Your home and safety are too important to risk. If you choose to use a propane torch, please exercise extreme caution and keep the flame well away from any structure.

A propane torch like those involved in recent Cape May County fires.

If You Use a Propane Torch:

• Maintain a safe distance from all structures, including homes, sheds, decks, fences, and overhanging vegetation. Keep the flame at least 10 feet away from any building or flammable material.

• Never use the torch on windy days when flames can be carried toward nearby structures.

• Have a garden hose or fire extinguisher on hand and ready to use.

• Consider safer alternatives like manual weeding, mulching, or approved herbicides.

 

For more information, contact the Cape May County Fire Marshal's Office:

Richard Lundholm, Fire Marshal

(609) 465-2570 (Office)

Richard.lundholm@co.cape-may.nj.us