Is it possible for tarps to catch fire? It depends on what type of tarp you have. Some tarps are prone to catch on fire. A tarp can catch fire if it is too close to heat sources or lighting. If you don’t use the correct type of tarp, a tent too close to a campfire could catch fire. Another way to make a tarpfire is by bringing certain heaters inside a tent.
A homeowner in Illinois discovered a flame inside his garage. The tarp had been placed near the fan’s extension cord. The extension cable heated up and lit the tarp. In 2018, welding sparks set a tarp ablaze. The fire started in the section of hospital which was being renovated. These are just two recent examples of tarp fires which could have been avoided with safety precautions, and fire retardant tape.
Although it’s difficult to know exactly how common tarp fires are, between 2010-2015, eight tent fires were reported by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. This is just tents. All tarps that are used to block wind on decks or construction sites, as well as protective covers, can catch fire. The risk can be eliminated by choosing the best tarp material.
Chicago Canvas tarps are flame-retardant. You need to know the differences between fire and flame-resistant tarps. These tarps resist the possibility of catching on fire. Although they may not catch fire as quickly or efficiently, there’s still a chance that they could burn. To prevent a flame or fire retardant from starting, tarps can be chemically treated. The risk of getting burned by hot materials is reduced as the chemicals extinguish the flames.
For the most protection, choose flame- or fire retardant roofing tarps. These are the best fire retardant sheets:
13-Ounce Vinyl Laminated Polyester Tarps, Heavy Duty – Available in many colors and sizes that can be flame retardant up to 30 by 20′.
16-ounce Fire-Retardant Canvas Tarps- Available in sizes up to 5×7′ and as big as 30×30′
18-Ounce Treated Canvas- Available in 4 or 5′ Widths, in Olive or Gold colors.
Be sure to follow safety rules and recommendations
You must adhere to safety guidelines even if you have a fire retardant cover tarp. Your tarp can be used as an outdoor patio cover. Space heaters should not be within a safe distance of the tarp. A patio heater six feet high must have at least three feet clearance. Your tarp roof should be at least nineft high and fire-resistant.
You should not use a tarp to make a tent. A heater that is specifically designed for tents must be brought inside. Safety shut-offs on these heaters can cut power when oxygen levels drop too low, the temperature rises too high or the unit tipping over. Choose the smallest heater that you require.
Tents should be kept away from campfires. If there is a strong wind gust, hot ashes and sparks can fly. For safety sake, keep the tent away from any fire. You should not smoke inside your tent. Your sleeping bag could catch fire, even if it is flame-resistant.
Your tarp should be kept away from heat-generating items. A tarp should not be placed near heat sources. You should replace or repair frayed wires. Extension cords shouldn’t be placed on or underneath tarps. You are safe, even if the fire retardant tarp you use.
When using the tarp for construction, make sure there’s enough space between any heaters or welding equipment. Fire retardant tarps should be used. You can reduce the chance of your tarp setting itself ablaze by taking additional precautions.
