A loud explosion near River Ranch RV Park startled Quincy area residents Saturday evening, Nov. 22. The blast, caused by gasoline vapors igniting during an attempt to light a burn pile, echoed through the mountains and was heard as far as East Quincy. No injuries or property damage occurred.
Quincy Fire Department and Plumas County Sheriff’s Office responded promptly. Fire Chief Frank Carey confirmed the individual involved was unharmed but embarrassed. The burn site was safely constructed in a pit with precautions in place, and the individual held a valid agricultural burn permit. No law enforcement action was taken.
Officials remind the public to avoid using gasoline or other flammable liquids to start burn piles. Safer alternatives include butane or propane torches, drip torches, flares, paper, or kindling. Before burning, residents should secure the appropriate permit from Cal Fire and verify burn days via the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District.
For more information, visit the Cal Fire website or call 530-274-7928.
