Maine Fire Officials Say It’s Important to Cover Your Ashes

Fire safety in your Maine home begins with covering your ash and being selective about where you park it.

Maine Firefighters Say Ashes are a Common Cause of House Fires

Over my many years doing news, I've spoken with firefighters from Bangor to the State Fire Marshal's Office, and they all emphasized one thing when talking about woodstove and fireplace safety. It's important to pay attention to fireplace or woodstove ashes; keeping them covered is only part of their recommendations.

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Winter fires often start with fireplace ashes that weren't properly handled. A fire last week in Monmouth began on the porch and was started by the accidental disposal of ashes. One person suffered minor burns but the family was able to get out without anything worse. The house, tragically, is a total loss. My thoughts are with that family, as I write this.

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Fireplace and Woodstove Ashes Need to Be Stored in a Proper Container

Local firefighters commonly recommend placing ashes in a fireproof, metal container, away from structures. A member of the Bangor Fire Department once told me a story about someone who put their fireplace ashes in a cardboard box and set it next to a building. They believed that since it was cold, with snow on the ground, it would be no problem. Unfortunately, those ashes heated up and sparked a fire that burned the structure.

They also discourage placing ashes in a metal container without a lid. One strong gust of wind could move ashes through the air, onto your porch or roof, and you have a fire.

Never Place Hot Ashes Too Close to Buildings

I've spoken with many firefighters and they all have the same advice. Put your fireplace or woodstove ashes in a covered metal container, store it away from any structures, and leave it there until the ashes have had ample time to cool completely, including in the center of the container.

Keeping your home safe this winter starts with remembering to cover your ash.