Firefighters warn of fire dangers in dry mulch

Columbus firefighters and police quickly extinguished a mulch fire yesterday at the Chili’s restaurant on National Road.

According to the fire department, the incident happened around 4:20 p.m. yesterday afternoon. Firefighters say that the fire was confined to a small area and did not threaten any damage to the building.

Firefighters are cautioning that with brisk winds, mulch and ornamental grasses can dry out quickly. A carelessly discarded cigarette or embers from an outdoor fire pit or grill can quickly ignite those materials. They suggest using extra caution on windy days and to make sure that you always dispose of any smoking materials in an appropriate, non combustible container.

Photo courtesy of Columbus Fire Department