State Fire Marshal warns of gas tank risks after explosion that injured six

The State Fire Marshal has released a warning for Minnesotans regarding propane tanks after a father and his six children were left in critical condition following an explosion inside a storage container on Monday.

The father and his five boys entered the storage container in Bagley to retrieve toys around 12:30 p.m. Unaware that a propane tank was leaking inside, the children entered first and didn't recognize the distinct odor of mercaptan, the additive that gives propane its "gas" smell.

Their father lit a cigarette, igniting the gas inside the unit. It left the boys – who are aged 6 to 14 and named Zander, Tannen, Braedynn, Kaeto, Keegan – and their father in a critical but stable condition.

Investigators have determined that the 100-pound propane cylinder, believed to be empty, contained enough residual gas to fill the storage container to dangerous levels.

State Fire Marshal Dan Krier to warn Minnesotans to never to keep propane tanks inside, never assume a tank is empty, and to install alarms where possible.

A GoFundMe created by the boys' older sister, Kyra Frank, states all five were airlifted to Hennepin County Medical Center and are now receiving treatment at the hospital's burn unit.

An update by the boys' mother on CaringBridge Thursday read: "Not a big update. Over all, today's surgeries went well. There will be more tomorrow however so continued prayers are greatly appreciated. Boys are hanging in there. Got an actual smile today; eye contact, and even a slight wave so this momma's heart is singing for joy and appreciation!"

According to the Minnesota DPS even a small amount of residual gas can create a potentially explosive atmosphere in a confined space. Alarms are also an important tool for detection, due to some people having a reduced ability to detect the odorant used in propane.

"This family faces a long road to recovery, but they are bravely sharing their story so that nobody else experiences such a devastating accident," State Fire Marshal Dan Krier said. "We hope this family's tragedy serves as a reminder to take precautions when storing and handling propane."

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Note: The details provided in this story are based on law enforcement's latest version of events and may be subject to change.