Petaluma Grass Fire Caused By Riding Lawnmower

PETALUMA - A grass fire that threatened a Petaluma home Sunday afternoon was caused by a lawnmower, according to the Petaluma Fire Department.

Around 4:15 p.m., residents near Rovina and Jacquelyn lanes reported a grass fire happening in the area, according to fire officials.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a fire about a half-acre in size, threatening a nearby home on Jacquelyn Lane as well as a radio tower located in the middle of the field, fire officials said.

Using hose lines, firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire before it reached any structures, according to fire officials.

The fire burned about an acre of grass and no injuries were reported, fire officials said.

The nearby house on Jacquelyn Lane sustained damage to its fence, outdoor play equipment and shed. Fire officials estimate the loss to be worth about $2,000.

Investigators determined the cause of the fire was due to a riding lawnmower that had struck a rock in the dry field. Because the air was warm at the time and there was also a steady breeze, the conditions helped ignite the fire, according to fire officials.

Firefighters recommend that residents mow their lawn before 10 a.m., when temperatures are not as high, and to never mow their lawn when it's windy.

-Bay City News, image via ShutterStock