Extinguish the Risk: Proper Disposal of Hot Materials

7/10/2024 (Permalink)

Plastic waste basket melted from unproperly disposed materials.

Dangerous Disposal

At SERVPRO® of Black Hawk County we have seen firsthand the damage that can occur when hot materials get disposed of in an undesirable and unsafe way.

Many of us enjoy barbecues, campfires, and fireworks during the summer. However, it's crucial to handle hot remnants with care. Improper disposal can quickly ignite a fire, putting your home and loved ones at risk. For instance, tossing hot charcoal into a plastic trash can or leaving a firework shell in a dry, grassy area can lead to a fire that spreads rapidly. These types of fires are dangerous and can cause significant damage to your property. 

Lessening your Risk

Proper disposal of hot materials is crucial to prevent potentially devastating damage. By taking these simple precautions, you can protect your property and avoid the need for costly repairs:

• Wait for Complete Cooling: Allow charcoal and ashes to cool completely for at least 48 hours after use. Even if they appear cool on the surface, embers can remain hot beneath.

• Use Metal Containers: Invest in a metal container designated for ash disposal.

• Douse with Water:  Submerge used firework remnants, or other materials in water for several hours to ensure they are thoroughly soaked and cooled.

• Avoid Combustible Materials: Never dispose of hot materials in or near combustible materials like dry grass, paper, or plastic.

• Monitor Disposed Materials: Periodically check disposed of materials to ensure no heat or smoke is emanating, even after they have been seemingly cooled and stored.

We hope these tips help you protect your surroundings and maintain a safe home this summer, especially when handling and disposing of hot materials!