AKRON --Two workers were injured Thursday afternoon when a 55-gallon drum of an alcohol-based product exploded as they were trying to open it with a blowtorch.

Akron Fire Department Spokesman John Gordon said the men suffered burns and were taken to Akron Children's Hospital. The names of the victims, and the extent of their injuries, were unavailable.

The incident happened at 3:28 p.m. at the Goodyear Gemini Auto Service, 2419 Romig Road.

Gordon said the fire spread to two cars in the garage and then the building itself. Damage in the fire was estimated at $125,000. The building can be repaired.

A spokesman for the store declined to comment on the fire, but said they plan to reopen soon.

Submitted on 01/16/2009

Submitted by: Anonymous
Reference: Cleveland Plain Dealer 1-16-09

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James said:
Maybe Toss: Lacks Excellence
This may have potential, but the pedestrian journalism doesn't include as much detail as I'd like to see. I will hold out for a better write-up. Thanks just the same!

Bruce said:
Definitely Keep: Honorable Mention
I found a link to an article so I'll accept this given that it describes the two people trying to open a drum of alcohol with a torch. What on earth were they thinking? http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/01/two_injured_in_akron_blaze.html

Candi said:
Definitely Keep: Honorable Mention
I'll go with Bruce. Opening 55 gallon drums is one thing; torching them when knowing said item is full of something flammable is something else!

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