Residents Advised to Properly Dispose of Barbecue Coals to Help Prevent Truck Fires

September is Truck and Heavy Equipment Fire Prevention Month at Waste Management and Waste Management of Southern California is extending its prevention efforts by reminding residents to properly dispose of barbecue coals to help prevent heat related cart and collection truck fires.

Throughout the month, employees across Southern California have been raising awareness and enhancing fire prevention methods around collection trucks and heavy equipment.

“Working safely and ensuring the safety of the public is top priority for us at Waste Management,” said Sheri Hummel, area safety manager for Waste Management of Southern California. “With seventy five percent of our waste and recycling collection truck fires resulting from improper disposal of materials, such as hot barbecue coals and ashes into trash containers or bins, we are asking community members to follow safe disposal practices in order to keep their loved ones and our drivers safe.”

• Coals or ashes fresh from being used should never be placed in a trash container
• Cool coals for several days in grill or fireplace, then place in a metal container with a tight lid before placing in trash container
• Do not use galvanized containers as hot coals on the galvanized metal will release noxious fumes
• Never place used coals in plastic, paper or wood containers
• To speed the cooling process, carefully place coals in a metal container full of water to extinguish any residuals
• Do not place other combustibles in the container with the coals or ashes

“By taking these extra steps to ensure proper disposal of cooled barbecue coals, we can ensure the safety of our community and our team of dedicated drivers,” continued Hummel.