Carelessly discarded ashes, whether they be from chimneys or smoking materials, are the leading cause of accidental fires this time of year, according to Ron Sollod, the fire prevention and life safety chair/coordinator for the Harford County Fire and Emergency Medical Services Association.

“These can be prevented if people just put things away,” Sollod said. “With any outlet, fireplace, or wood stove, make sure that your ashes are completely out or put them in a metal container and put them outside somewhere.”

Sollod spoke during public comment at the Feb. 15 County Council meeting to bring attention to the issue.

Since Jan. 1, two of the 13 fires investigated by the State Fire Marshal in Harford County were caused by discarded smoking materials or ashes, according to Oliver Alkire, senior deputy state fire marshal. Those two fires did not result in any injuries, but did cause $160,000 in damage.

“Accidents can happen,” Sollod said. “That’s why they’re called accidents.”

Not only should discarded ashes be placed in a fireproof container, Sollod said, but that container should be placed on a fireproof surface such as cement or dirt. Ashes in a metal container on a wooden deck are a “recipe for a problem,” he said, and could cause the deck to catch fire.

Sollod also said that ashes may appear to be dark and unlit, but “on the inside, they’re still burning, they’re still smoldering.”

Alkire had the same advice: “We always suggest for people to treat all ashes or coals as hot ashes.”

Alkire said when disposing of ashes, place them in an airtight container at least 10 feet from a home or structure. Rich Gardiner, media spokesperson for the HCVFA, added that containers should not be placed near any trees or vegetation.

Sollod recommends extinguishing cigarette ashes in a nonflammable substance such as a cup of water. Gardiner also recommends getting chimneys and fireplaces routinely inspected and cleaned.

This 2021 fire in the 3000 block of Widow's Care in Jarrettsville, Maryland, is one example of several fires that occur each year from improperly discarded ashes, according to Rich Gardiner, spokesperson for the Harford County Volunteer Fire and EMS Association. (Nick McGowan, Jr./Harford County Volunteer Fire & EMS Foundation)