PUTNAM — The fire that destroyed a shed and caused heat damage to two Dufault Street homes has been ruled accidental, according to Putnam Fire Marshal Scott Belleville.
The fire originated in a metal bucket where rags for cleaning painting tools were stored.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 14,000 fires occur annually from spontaneous combustion.  To prevent self-heating, it is important to soak rags in water or dry them in a well-ventilated area after use with certain solvents, paints, or oils before storing or disposing them.  Please read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use and methods of safe disposal, said Belleville.
An origin and cause investigation conducted by the Putnam Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the fire originated on the exterior of the 10’X10’ shed at 23 Dufault St.  Through interviews and fire pattern analysis it was concluded that the fire originated in a metal bucket used for the storage of rags which were used to clean painting tools. The bucket was then placed against the rear portion of the shed in an area of reduced ventilation.  The solvent used by the homeowner to clean the paint has been documented to have the ability to self-heat to the temperature of autoignition.    
Firefighters were called to Putnam’s “North End” June 22 for a shed fire at 31 Dufault St. Fire personnel encountered a well involved shed that had spread to a nearby fence, multiple pieces of gas-powered equipment, and a group of large cedar trees  between 23 and 31 Dufault streets.
Both of the homes sustained damage from the intense heat.  Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire within minutes of arrival and no injuries were reported. If anyone has any further information concerning this incident, they’re asked to contact Putnam Fire Marshal Scott Belleville at (860) 963-6800 X112.

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