September 2, 2024
News release prepared by:
Battalion Chief Ron Lubke
At approximately 8:32 am on September 2, 2024, Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) and Missoula Emergency Services Inc. (MESI) were dispatched to 6485 U.S. Highway 10 West for a reported vehicle explosion with a burn victim.
The first engine company arrived in less than four minutes and found a vehicle with significant damage and a male with serious burn injuries to his upper body. There was no fire, after the initial explosion. MRFD firefighters and MESI personnel treated the patient at the scene and then transported him to Providence Saint Patrick Hospital for further treatment. No additional information on the patient’s injuries or condition is available at this time.
Units responding to the scene included two engines and a command unit from MRFD, an ambulance and a paramedic supervisor from MESI and deputies from the Missoula County Sherriff Office (MCSO).
Upon investigation of the scene, it was determined that the male had left a propane camp stove in his vehicle overnight and the propane had leaked filling the vehicle with highly flammable propane gas. When the male attempted to start the vehicle in the morning the propane gas ignited causing the explosion and his subsequent injuries.
MRFD offers the following safety tips when using or storing propane or propane fire appliances:
- Keep clutter and flammable materials away from propane tanks and appliances.
- Recognize the smell of propane.
- Monitor your pilot lights.
- Maintain your appliances according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Inspect your tank before and after each use.
- Store propane tanks outside, in the shade. Never store propane tanks indoors or in a vehicle.
- Be certain propane tanks are turned off when not in use.
- Small portable propane tanks that do not have a shut off valve, such as those used for camp stoves, lanterns and some grills should be disconnected and stored properly when not in use.
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For additional information on this incident or fire safety please contact MRFD at 406-549-6172.