Hot ashes
Every year, SOPFEU has to intervene in fires caused by still-hot ashes disposed near the forest. These ashes can ignite dry grass and quickly spread toward the forest.
Here are some tips for safely disposing of ashes.
Regularly empty the ashes
As a precaution, ashes from the firepit should be regularly emptied, never with a vacuum cleaner, but with a metal shovel.
Use a metal container
Always place hot ashes in a metal container with a raised bottom and a tight-fitting metal lid.
Keep the container outdoors
Store the metal container outside, as hot ashes can emit carbon monoxide.
Place on a non-combustible surface
Set the metal container on a non-combustible surface, at least 1 metre away from any object.
Wait 7 days before disposal
Allow ashes to cool for at least 7 days before transferring them to another container (such as a garbage bin or organic waste bin). Stir the ashes to ensure they are completely cooled.
Learn more about other high-risk activities
Waste burning
Every year, an average of 75 forest fires are caused accidentally by waste burning.
Campfires
Around 60 wildfires per year originate from a campfire that was either uncontrolled or not completely extinguished.
Smoking articles
Every year, about 80 wildfires are caused by cigarette butts, matches, and other smoking items.
