Nationally, improper ash disposal from indoor and outdoor fireplaces and wood-burning stoves causes thousands of fires every year. The Lake Valley Fire Protection District offers free ash cans to our local residents. To obtain a free ash can, just stop by Station 6 or Station 7 during regular business hours. Station 6 is located at 1286 Golden Bear off Pioneer Trail and Station 7 is located at 2211 Keetak St in Meyers. Station 7 offers free disposal of ashes, contact Station 7 at (530) 577-3737 if you have any questions.

With the use of indoor and outdoor fireplaces and alternative heating/cooking methods, the Lake Valley Fire Protection District would like to remind you of the proper ways to dispose of leftover ashes.  Many people do not realize the length of time required for ashes to cool enough for disposal.  Even after several days, a pile of ashes can hold enough heat to reignite and start a fire.  Four days, or 96 hours, is the minimum recommended cooling period for ashes. Extra care should be used in the storage and final disposal.

Below are some helpful procedures when disposing of ashes.

• Make sure there are no hot spots left in the ashes.  This is done by soaking them in water or letting them sit for several days and double-checking for hot spots. This would apply to charcoal grill ashes as well.
• All ashes should then be stored in the fire-resistant metal container provided.  This helps keep air from blowing through and disturbing ashes which can leave hot coals exposed for reigniting. They should NEVER be disposed of in a plastic garbage box or can, a cardboard box, or paper grocery bag.  Never use a vacuum cleaner to pick up ashes.
• The metal container should be placed away from anything flammable. It should not be placed next to a firewood pile, up against or in the garage, on or under a wood deck, or under a porch.
• After sitting for a week in the metal container, check them again to be sure that they are cool. If so, the ashes are then safe to dispose of in your trash. However, we recommend ashes be disposed of in a flame resistant bin provided by your refuse company.