The Branford Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 69 Windmill Hill Road the evening of February 28th, a single-family residential home. Upon arrival of fire department units, a working fire was declared, and additional resources were requested through our dispatch center. Two occupants and their dog escaped injury and were accounted for. Through investigation of the fire scene, this event was determined to be accidental in nature and the result of discarded fireplace ashes. This fire event caused significant property damage and resulted in the occupants being unable to remain in the home as it was deemed uninhabitable by the Building Department. Firefighters from Guilford and East Haven aided through our mutual aid agreements currently in place.
Branford Fire Department would like to remind our residents of the dangers associated with disposal of fireplace ashes. Below is a quick checklist for reference along with a weblink for further information.
Fireplace ashes should be placed into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.
Carefully shovel ashes from the fireplace into the metal container. Do not use a vacuum.
Do not place ashes into paper bags, plastic bags, cardboard boxes, plastic trash cans, or plastic bins.
Once ashes are in the metal container, douse the ashes with water and stir. Once all the ashes have been cooled. Place a lid on container.
Place the metal container with the secured lid at least 10 feet from your residence or any combustible materials. Allow ashes to sit and cool for 48-72 hours. After ensuring the ashes are cooled, it is safe to dispose of them with other household waste.