Unusually dry conditions in parts of the U.S. mean groundskeeping and maintenance workers need to be extra careful with mechanical equipment. Trimmers, leaf blowers, and mowers, even operating normally can create enough heat to spark a fire in extra dry brush, grass, and fallen leaves.
That’s what officials say happened at a massive suburban Chicago brush fire. A fire in Orland Hills, Illinois, near the town’s Community Center was caused by a spark from a machine a maintenance worker was using to performing routine work, according to Patch.
Luckily, fire crews were able to contain the fire and prevent it from causing any damage to the building and preventing any injuries.
During periods of drought and extreme heat, both of which are increasing as climate change speeds up, striking a balance between maintaining grounds so that they remain attractive, conserving water, not overburdening staff time, and avoiding fire hazards can be challenging. One tip experts suggest is xeriscaping – that is, using plants that easily tolerate dry weather. Another tip is when mowing, leave about three inches of grass to maintain some of the shelter to soil. Also, if possible, remove the trimmer box on mowers when mowing to prevent clogging that can cause overheating.
Greg Zimmerman is senior contributing editor for FacilitiesNet.com and Building Operating Management magazine.
