A Longmont neighborhood was rocked by explosions caused by propane tanks stored in a detached garage at 134 Marshall Place early Wednesday morning. The fire heavily damaged the garage and the radiant heat caused damage to the back awning and siding of the home, said Longmont Public Safety spokeswoman Robin Ericson.
Fire crews arrived at the home at 6:40 a.m. and found the garage behind the home fully engulfed with multiple explosions from the propane tanks, Ericson said.
Fire crews attacked the fire with multiple hose lines while police officers worked on evacuating nearby houses. Firefighters stopped the fire from extending to the house, with only damage to the exterior siding and windows.
The occupants of the home — Michael and Lisa Gianetti — escaped from the home without injury. Michael Gianetti told the Leader he owns a hot air balloon business and used the garage to store the balloons as well as two propane tanks.
The fire was under control at 7:06 a.m. and crews remained on scene for several hours dousing hot spots, Ericson said. The neighboring residents were allowed back into their homes and both fire and police personnel are currently investigating the cause of the blaze, she said.
There is no damage estimate at this time.
