Don't Get Burnt: How To Safely Dispose of Fireplace Ashes

Disposing of ashes from a fireplace or wood stove? 

Do so with caution, urged the Central Fire Protection Department of Santa Cruz County on Wednesday, as hot coals and embers can be concealed in fireplace ash and smolder for hours.

The following are the key tips they gave.

• When disposing of ashes, always use a metal can with a lid. Store the metal container outside away from your home and combustible materials until the ashes are cool. Water can be added to the container to reduce cooling time. 
• Coals and embers can stay hot for hours or days. Never store ashes inside of your home or garage. Do not dispose of ashes with household garbage. 
• Cooled ashes can be used as fertilizer, but do not dispose of ashes in compost. Never use trash or charcoal as fuel. These may give off toxic gases when they burn.
• Flammable liquids should not be used to light fires. Vapors from the liquids can flash back when lit and cause burn injuries.

For more fire safety information, check the Central Fire District website at www.centralfpd.com.