Did you know that home fires take more than 2,500 lives in the U.S. each year? One of the ways you can play it safe is ensuring that fireplace ashes, cigar and cigarette butts, or barbecue coals are completely extinguished before they’re placed in the trash. Otherwise, it’s risky business that could result in a fire.
You can prevent trash can fires by taking a few simple precautions:
- Place ashes, coals, and butts in a tightly sealed metal container for 48 hours before placing them in the trash. Even then, check to make sure no heat or hot embers remain before tossing.
- Douse ashes or coals with water and stir to make sure all fire is extinguished before placing them in the trash bin.
- Always soak cigar and cigarette butts and ashes in water before throwing them away.
Get more trash and recycling tips here.