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An overwhelming number of brush, grass and forest fires (between 80% and 95%) are caused by people, according to statistics collected by the National Inter-agency Fire Center (NIFC) and the National Fire Incident Reporting System.
While about 20% of all such fires are intentionally set, most human-caused fires are accidental and related to careless disposal of hot embers, ash or cigarettes.
Don’t let ash from your wood stove or fireplace add to this statistic!

The fact is that coals and ashes from fires can remain hot enough to start a fire for many days after you think the fire is out. The exact amount of time for complete extinguishment and cooling depends on many factors such as how hot the fire was, what was burning, how much unburned fuel remains, etc.

To be safe, simply treat all ashes and coals as hot, even when you think they had time enough to cool. 
If possible, allow your ashes and coals to cool in place in your wood stove or fireplace where they were made for several days. When it is time to dispose of the ashes, transfer them to a metal container with an airtight lid and wet them down. Keep the metal container outside your home and away from any combustible materials.
DO NOT place any other combustibles in the metal container.
DO NOT use a combustible container, this means plastic or cardboard box.
DO NOT put a metal can on carpet, wood floor or in the grass. Remove to the outside with a secure lid.

More Fireplace/Wood stove Safety Tips

• Have your chimney inspected annually, and cleaned as necessary, by a professional chimney sweep to ensure it is clear of obstructions and creosote.
• Repair any cracks in your chimney and fireplace.                                                                        
• Use fireplace screens to keep sparks and fire debris inside the fireplace. 
• Do not use any accelerates to start a fire. 
• Ensure the fire is completely out before going to bed or leaving the house. 
• Make sure the area around the fireplace is clear of all combustibles (Three feet away is a good rule).
• Keep all children and pets a safe distance from fireplaces. 
• Install both smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. 
• Keep a fire extinguisher on hand. 
• Observe all safety precautions when using outdoor fireplaces they can be just as dangerous as indoor units.