VDOF reminds of the dangers hot ash can pose in setting wild and forest fires.

Hot Ash Safety Facts

This past Novemebr weekend, the improper disposal of ashes from fireplaces and woodstoves caused several wildland fires. Wood ashes retain enough heat to ignite other combustible materials for several days. High winds can uncover still-hot coals and start a wildfire.

Officials with the Virginia Department of Forestry are alerting homeowners to this potentially serious threat to the safety of their families and homes.

“Improper ash disposals destroy homes, outbuildings and valuable resources each year,” said Fred Turck, VDOF resource protection manager. “PLEASE BE CAREFUL !!!”

What can you do to prevent forest and field fires igniting from hot wood ash?

Store ashes in a metal container that can be tightly closed with a metal lid. Dump ashes into the container. 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.

DO NOT store your metal ash container on your deck, in your garage or in any location that may allow heat to transfer from those hot coals to nearby flammable items.

DO NOT place hot ashes in a dumpster. There are certainly other combustible materials already in the dumpster.

DO NOT dispose of ashes in paper, plastic or cardboard containers.

DO NOT assume the ashes are cold and pour them onto the ground (even into a hole) where leaves can blow onto them or the wind can stir up sparks.

Once you are POSITIVE your container of ashes is “cold,” place in a pile and prepare your container for the next load.

Teach other family members about the dangers associated with hot ash disposal.

Be careful with ashes around areas you might not consider as combustible during wetter times, such as mulched flowerbeds and lawns that are drought stricken.

One cord of wood produces about 50 pounds of ash, which can be used for many other purposes.

Ashes from different types of wood vary slightly in their chemical composition, but all kinds of ashes can be used as fertilizer. They produce 50 percent to 70 percent lime and contain phosphorus, potash and trace elements. Gardeners can raise the soil’s pH by applying wood ash to their soil. To avoid altering the pH too drastically, take a soil sample prior to the addition of wood ashes to your garden spot. If the soil pH value is below 5.8 and there is a lime recommendation on the soil test, then place a dusting of wood ash on the surface and work it into the soil.

Also, ashes may be used as a repellent. Sprinkle ashes beside row crops and on paths through the garden to discourage slugs and snails.

–VDOF– Submitted by Jon Willoughby, Fire Warden