SEATTLE – The Seattle Fire Department and Police Department are investigating a series of set fires to dumpsters in the Ballard area over the past few weeks. The first dumpster fire in Ballard occurred on December 21, 2017. Residents and businesses can view an online interactive map of all arson dumpster fires reported in Ballard since December, 2017. If additional dumpster fires occur in the area, locations will be added to the map.

Map last updated at 10:00 p.m. on 1/7/2018.

With these recent fires, we recommend business owners and residents take a few simple steps to reduce the chance of an arson fire in your dumpster and/or bins.

OUTSIDE:

Locate dumpsters and containers at least five feet away from walls and roof eave lines. Use only metal or metal-lined receptacles.

Place locks on commercial dumpsters or keep in secured area. Locks may be available through your contracted service provider.

Secure business and garage areas by locking doors and windows.

Clean up wastepaper, grasses, weeds, litter, or anything that can burn from around buildings. Clear carport areas of all combustibles.

Trim shrubbery from doors and windows to improve visibility.

Install motion-sensor exterior lights.

INSIDE:

Test fire and life safety systems, including fire extinguishers, to ensure they are working and in compliance with codes.

Develop and practice a fire response plan.

Keep exit ways clear of items which could slow evacuation efforts.

Please report any information you believe may be related to arson to SPD’s Arson and Bomb Squad at (206) 684-8980 or the Arson Alarm Foundation Hotline at 1-800-55-ARSON or arsonalarm.org. An award may be provided for information resulting in an arson conviction. Persons providing information may remain anonymous. If you see any suspicious activity taking place, please call 911.