Hot Ash Concerns

Virginia forestry officials continue to warn about the improper disposal of ashes from fireplaces and wood stoves. They say wood ashes retain enough heat to ignite other combustible materials and high winds can uncover still-hot coals and start a wildfire.

The Virginia Department of Forestry advises homeowners to store ashes in a metal container that can be tightly closed with a metal lid. Dump ashes into the container and douse the ashes with water. Place the lid on the container and place the closed container outside your home away from combustible materials. Leave ashes in the container for several days before disposing of them. Wood ash, once completely cooled, can safely be disposed.

Forestry officials warn Virginians never to place hot ashes in a dumpster and don’t dispose of ashes in paper, plastic or cardboard containers.