Darwin says, "Accepted into the Archive."

I cannot reveal the patient's name due to HIPPA laws. I responded as a District Chief for the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department at the request of an engine company that was sent to extinguish a "routine trash fire". The Lieutenant said to me" you gotta see this". A group of intoxicated guys had decided that paint cans thrown into the 55 gallon drum fire was not exciting enough so they escalated the fun by tossing in, not one but three 20 pound propane cylinders that they incorrectly percieved as empty. Partially empty cylinders are actually more dangerous than full ones since they cannot absorb as much heat prior to venting or exploding. Needless to say, the fun went south with one cylinder violently venting into the face of one reveler. He was transported to a neighboring city's burn unit with severe burns to his face and hands. I understand that he will survive. A close call but unfortunately the gene pool is still at risk from these rocket scientists.

Submitted on 12/20/2008

Submitted by: Chip Drysdale
Reference:

Copyright © 2008 DarwinAwards.com

Candi said:
Definitely Keep: Personal Account
.....!!!!! I think these DA and HM nominees had their brains go south for the winter! Throwing propane canisters, however full, in a bloody FIRE!?! Good grief! Talk about an incredible act of common sense! We've had LOTS of fuel fires, etc., but these guys did their best to go that exra mile! This'll definitely fly as a PA! Thanks Chief Drysdale, and submit again! And thanks to you and all your coworkers for the work THEY do.

Bruce said:
Definitely Keep: Personal Account
Even if I was drunk I'd likely realize that tossing propane tanks into a fire isn't a good thing. But then again I tend to know a little more about things like Darwin Awards. Thanks, Chip!

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