California

Ignited Fuel Vapors Injure 5 Children on Boat at Folsom Lake

Five children under the age of 15 have been injured in California after fuel vapors ignited and caused an explosion.

Folsom Lake Marina officials say the man operating the 18-foot (5.5-meter) boat had just put fuel in it before starting the engine on Sunday, which may have ignited the fuel vapors. Everyone on the boat jumped off and was helped to safety after the explosion.

KCRA-TV reports the victims were taken to a hospital to get treatment for first- and second-degree burns.

All five victims are expected to survive.

Alisa Schaedler, a witness who arrived at Brown's Ravine Marina just after the incident, says an example of fuel vapors igniting is when a barbecue backfires after lighting it with the lid on.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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