Wilton Fire Officials Warn Residents On Disposing Of Fireplace Ashes

WILTON, CT — With the holiday season in full swing, and chestnuts roasting away on open fires all over town, the Wilton Fire Department is once again reminding residents how to properly dispose of fireplace ashes.

"Ashes in fireplaces can remain hot and combustible for many days after the fire is out. Ashes should be left to cool in the fireplace for a few days when possible," fire officials advised in a statement issued Tuesday.

The FD has provided this checklist to follow when you are ready to dispose of the ashes:

• All fireplace ashes should be placed into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.
• Carefully shovel ashes from fireplace into the metal container. Do not use a vacuum.
• Do not place ashes into paper bags, plastic bags, cardboard boxes, plastic trash cans or plastic bins.
• Once ashes are in the metal container, douse the ashes with water and stir them thoroughly. Make sure all the ashes have been cooled. Place lid on container.
• Place metal container with secured lid at least 10 feet from your residence or anything combustible. Allow ashes to sit and cool for 48-72 hours. After ensuring the ashes are cooled, it is safe to dispose of them with other household waste.