Can I clean my extruder tip with a blowtorch?

I hadn't thought about this, but I was reading about a guy that uses a blowtorch to clean his extruder tips. He said that it works really well for him. He just continues to heat the tip of the extruder until the flame and smoke stop. Has anyone else done this to clear a blockage? Is it safe? Can it damage the extruder at all?

Well, you have to remove the nozzle first, no?

Besides burning down the house I don't see what harm it could do. :D

I've done this before. I have a small blowtorch and it works great. My printer is in my garage so its a bit more feasible though :)