How do I dispose of ashes from my fireplace?   

1. Ashes must be removed before they impair the operation of the wood appliance. Once removed, they should be placed in a metal container and stored outside on a non-combustible surface.
    
2. Ashes removed and cooled off can be used in small quantities in a vegetable garden to reduce soil acidity. Ideally, wood ash in small quantities can be beneficial to flower gardens and some house plants.
    
3. Never remove ashes, even when you think they're cooled off, with a paper bag, plastic bag, cardboard box or plastic containers. Ashes retains a lot of hidden coals and can re-ignite once air has been introduced.