San Bruno, Calif. (Map, News) - Authorities found that a combustible liquid for wood sealing was the mystery substance reported Thursday morning.

A resident on the 900 block of Mason Avenue reported seeing three containers on nearby Forest Lane. San Bruno Fire Department Battalion Chief Joe Telles said hazardous materials experts with the Belmont-San Carlos Fire Department came out and determined that the odorless liquid was simply disposed of incorrectly.

However, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services said it could have spelled disaster if someone lit a match nearby. The containers were brought to the San Bruno Corporation Yard and will be disposed of soon, Telles said.

tramroop@examiner.com