Lawnmower Sparks Wildfire Behind Fort Collins Home
Poudre Fire Authority crews extinguished a wildfire ignited by a lawnmower behind a Castle Ridge Court home on October 25, highlighting ongoing fire risks from yard work equipment during dry fall conditions.
Multiple callers reported flames spreading through trees and a ditch area behind a home on the 600 block of Castle Ridge Court shortly after 5:30 p.m. The Station 5 crew arrived to find several trees, branches and leaves burning behind the residence.
A battalion chief dispatched a Type 6 brush truck specifically designed to access wildfire terrain. Crews from Engine 8 and Brush 8 assisted in containing the fire and extinguishing remaining hot spots. The last PFA unit cleared the scene at 6:43 p.m.
The property owner had mowed and collected leaves less than an hour before discovering the fire, according to PFA officials. The homeowner had dumped the fresh clippings in the area where the fire ignited.
Equipment Operation Creates Spark Risks
Mowing or operating small engines on dry, windy days can easily generate sparks that ignite fires, fire officials warned. The October 25 incident demonstrates how routine yard maintenance becomes hazardous during periods of low moisture and dry vegetation.
"It is important to note that this is a common practice for this homeowner, and for many people, but even though this is done every fall by many, doesn't make it safe," PFA stated in its announcement.
Fire restrictions in unincorporated Larimer County above 6,000 feet were lifted October 3, according to the Larimer County Sheriff's Office. However, dry vegetation and windy conditions continue to create fire risks throughout the region during fall months.
Fort Collins prohibits residents from burning yard waste including leaves, branches and grass clippings. The city does not permit open burning of routine yard and garden cleanup materials.
PFA responded to a garage fire on the 3100 block of Eagle Drive on October 25 caused by spontaneous combustion of oily rags used for wood staining. Fire officials said the authority responds to multiple oily rag fires each year.
Safety Guidelines for Yard Equipment Use
Fire officials recommend the following precautions when operating mowers or small engines during dry conditions:
- Avoid operating equipment near dry vegetation
- Ensure equipment has cooled completely before refueling or parking
- Keep a hose or fire extinguisher readily accessible when conditions are dry
- Monitor weather conditions including wind speed and humidity before beginning yard work
- Clear the work area of dry leaves, grass clippings and other combustible materials before starting equipment
PFA serves approximately 212,000 residents across Fort Collins, Timnath, LaPorte, Bellvue and surrounding areas through 13 fire stations. The authority was established in 1981 through consolidation of the Fort Collins Fire Department and Poudre Valley Fire Protection District.