Placerville, Calif. (December 1, 2023) – A potentially disastrous incident was narrowly averted when firefighters swiftly responded to a house fire near Cold Springs Rd and Marva Ln, just north of Placerville, on November 29, around 2 p.m. The prompt arrival of Engine 25 and Medic 49 revealed a smoldering fire near the front porch, already extinguished by the vigilant homeowner. Firefighters ensured that the fire was fully extinguished, preventing further escalation.
The investigation revealed that the cause of the fire was traced back to improperly discarded fireplace ashes. The homeowner had transferred the ashes from a metal can to a paper bag, which was then placed near the porch. Compounding the risk, a stack of firewood surrounded the porch, leading to the involvement of some firewood in the blaze. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in this incident.
Safety Tips from El Dorado County Fire Protection District:
To avoid similar fire hazards involving fireplace ashes, residents are strongly urged to follow these preventive measures:
- Use a Tightly Covered Metal Container: Dispose of ashes in a tightly covered metal container positioned at least 10 feet away from the home and any flammable materials.
- No Storage Inside Buildings: Ashes should never be stored inside a building, minimizing the risk of accidental fires.
- Avoid Paper or Plastic Bags: Never use paper or plastic bags, cardboard, or plastic boxes for ash storage to prevent combustible materials from igniting.
- Ensure Adequate Cooling Time: Allow ashes to cool completely before disposal, a process that may take 4-7 days.
- Avoid Direct Trash Can Disposal: Never empty ashes directly into a trash can; instead, pour water on them before disposal to further minimize any potential fire risk.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper fireplace ash disposal practices. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to protect their homes and communities from preventable fire incidents.
