When using fireplaces, wood stoves and heating appliances indoors this winter it’s important to remember a few safety tips and precautions, according to local fire officials. Heating equipment and improper ash disposal are leading causes of home and wildland fires in the fall and winter. | tahoelivingwithfire.com
- Heating equipment, chimneys, fireplaces/wood stoves should be inspected & cleaned before use.
- Allow ashes to cool completely before disposing of them. Four days or 96 hours is the minimum recommended cooling period.
- Place ashes in a covered metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container at least 10 feet away from the home, other buildings and flammable items. Never use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes.
- Keep anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from a fireplace/wood stove or any other heating appliance.
- Ensure fireplaces/wood stoves have a sturdy screen. Never leave a fire unattended, particularly when children are present.
- Many fire districts have free ash can programs or they may be purchased at local hardware stores.
