Pala

A 2-year-old boy was critically burned when a 5-gallon can of gasoline stored at his family’s home exploded into flames, Pala Fire Department officials said.

Capt. Robert Smith said the fire, which started in the laundry room, consumed the entire home and took about an hour for 30 firefighters from the Pala department, the California Department of Forestry and the Inland Fire Department to extinguish. Smith estimated the loss at $80,000 to $100,000.

Smith said the fire, which started about 3:35 p.m. Wednesday, began when fumes escaping from a can of gas exploded in flames. The can, whose opening had been plugged with a rag, was stored next to a water heater.

Both parents, Richard Kolb, 28, and Doreen Kolb, 42, suffered second- and third-degree burns trying to get the toddler out of the house, Smith said.

All three family members were taken to UC San Diego Medical Center for treatment. The toddler, William Kolb, suffered third-degree burns to 90% of his body and was in critical but stable condition, a hospital spokeswoman said Thursday. Both parents were in good condition.