Summary: Dumpster fires might seem simple, but they’re packed with hidden hazards, from harmful contents to explosive reactions. When approaching, the firefighters we surveyed suggested using full PPE and SCBA, avoiding standing over the rim, and considering remote extinguishment like deck guns or fog patterns from a distance. Many firefighters suggested flooding the container fully and taking steps to prevent reignition. Probie or veteran, treat every dumpster like a hazmat scene and use technique, not just water.
This discussion got way more interesting than we were expecting. Could there be more to dumpster fires than you realize? Absolutely. Behind every seemingly routine trash fire is a bundle of unknowns, from chemical hazards to explosive surprises. Firefighters across the country weighed in with over 100 comments, sharing their best advice, biggest mistakes, and practical tactics. Here's what every firefighter (especially probies) should keep in mind.
You don’t know what’s burning in that dumpster, say the firefighters we surveyed. Plastics, chemicals, propane canisters, or even bodies have been found smoldering inside. That’s why so many firefighters stressed this point: wear full turnout gear and always pack up. Even if it looks like “just trash,” treat it like a hazmat call.
"Seen too many approach without SCBAs because 'it's just a trash fire!' Take every fire like it's a Haz-Mat event." —Jake Mattingley
The consensus? Distance is your friend. From deck guns to combination nozzles on fog patterns, everyone agreed: don’t get up close unless you absolutely have to.
"Use the deck gun. Park away, stacked tip and lob 500 gallons into the dumpster." —Matthew Alley
"TFT Combination Nozzle, hit it from a distance... 45-degree fog." —Chuck Taylor
"Banking your water into the dumpster as you approach... put the hose over your shoulder and hold the nozzle up over the rim... as opposed to standing over it."" —Pat Harvey
When hose work is required, a few key tips came up again and again:
Approach from upwind.
Keep your head below the rim level, and turned away, so debris doesn't hit you.
Shoulder the line and aim over the edge, not into it.
Never stand directly above the dumpster.
Nearly everyone agreed: the best way to prevent rekindles is to flood the dumpster entirely and make sure you hit all the debris safely. A quick surface soak won’t cut it.
"They don’t rekindle if they’re full of water." —Paul Benes
"Break up the debris and expose the gunk at the bottom." —Jeffrey Lavulo
"Fill to overflow. Wait until spring and drill drain hole." —Richard Lenaghan (kidding, mostly)
One tip offered: If you can plug the drain holes (many dumpsters have them), do it. Then fill until the trash floats.
Once the fire’s knocked, the job may not be over. Some firefighters recommended (cautiously) flipping trash, stirring it up, and continuing water application. Don’t touch hot metal with bare gloves. And definitely don’t assume the job’s done just because there’s no flame.
"Use a hook and stir it all up. Overhaul it right." —Common theme
Some tips leaned specific:
7/8" smooth bore tips got a few nods for deeper penetration.
Fog patterns at 30–45 degrees were preferred by others, for shielding and cooling.
Foam was mentioned by a few as a smart way to limit runoff and improve effectiveness.
"Less water equals less hazardous run off. Higher cooling and separates the oxygen from the fuel." —Philip Worsman
Skipping PPE because “it’s just trash”
Standing over the rim of a burning dumpster
Forgetting to overhaul thoroughly
Leaving drain holes open
Not considering foam as an option
Dumpster fires may not be glamorous, but they’re still unpredictable, toxic, and dangerous. Whether you’re a salty veteran or fresh probie, remember: it’s not just about putting water on it. It’s about positioning, protection, and procedure.