Massachusetts Man’s Attempt to Melt Roof Ice with Blowtorch Sparks Major House Fire
MILTON, Mass. — A routine winter chore turned disastrous for a Milton homeowner who inadvertently set his house ablaze while trying to melt ice on his roof with a blowtorch. The incident unfolded amid a harsh winter spell that has gripped much of the Northeast with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall, complicating everyday tasks for many residents.
According to Milton Fire Deputy Chief John Earner, the man used a blowtorch to tackle the dangerous ice buildup on his roof, a common but risky problem during the region’s brutal cold snap. What initially appeared to be a small flare-up quickly escalated as flames spread into the attic, engulfing the upper part of the home.
“We pulled the gutter off that side of the building thinking it was going to be a light fire, and the whole attic was fully involved,” Earner said, describing the rapid progression of the blaze. Neighbors witnessed the fire intensifying within moments. One neighbor told WCVB-TV, “He gets down, and then we see the flames just in the gutter. All of a sudden, smoke was coming from everywhere. It just seemed like the whole roof was consumed.”
The incident highlights the dangers of using open flames near flammable building materials, especially during winter when ice dams create tempting but hazardous conditions for homeowners. Fire officials strongly caution against such do-it-yourself methods, urging residents to hire professionals for ice removal to avoid similar tragedies.
Winter storms across the Northeast have left many homes vulnerable to ice accumulation, which can cause structural damage and leaks. The National Weather Service has issued numerous warnings about the risks of ice dams and the importance of proper roof maintenance during the cold months.
Massachusetts residents are reminded that safer alternatives exist, such as using roof rakes or hiring licensed contractors equipped to handle ice removal without risking fire hazards. The U.S. Fire Administration provides guidelines on preventing winter-related fires and advises against the use of torches or open flames near homes.
As temperatures remain low and snowfall continues, local fire departments are urging vigilance and preparedness. The Milton Fire Department’s warning serves as a stark reminder of how quickly a seemingly minor task can spiral into a dangerous emergency.
For more information on winter safety and fire prevention, residents can consult resources provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and their local fire authorities. These organizations emphasize planning ahead and using safe, approved methods to protect homes during extreme weather conditions.
In the wake of the fire, no injuries have been reported, but the homeowner faces significant property damage. The Milton Fire Department continues to investigate the incident and encourages the public to prioritize safety over expediency when dealing with winter hazards.
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