DRW house fire prompts Bend FD reminder about ashes

Early Friday morning, the Bend Fire Department responded to a house fire in Deschutes River Woods caused by discarded wood stove ashes which were still hot enough to ignite combustible materials.

During colder weather, with increased wood stove use, fire officials urge you to please remember to dispose of your wood ashes safely. Discarded ashes can ignite paper and other combustibles for up to a week after being removed from the heating device.

The Bend Fire Department would like to remind residents with wood stoves or fireplaces to dispose of ashes in metal containers placed on a non-combustible surface (concrete or dirt) outside of the structure, keeping the container away from anything that can burn.

It is also a good idea to use water in the metal container and stir the ashes to assist with full extinguishment. Ashes can be used for gardening or disposed of in the garbage only when they are confirmed cold to touch.

Over the years, the Bend Fire Department has responded to many fires caused by ashes inadvertently loaded into combustible containers (paper sack or cardboard box) and placed on a wooden surface (the deck) or left in the garage, only to ignite the container, with fire spreading into the structure.

Fortunately, Friday morning’s fire occupants escaped unscathed, thanks to working smoke alarms and first responders.