From Los Alamos County:

Nothing says cozy like a crackling fire on a chilly night — until those fireplace ashes turn into an unexpected hazard. Before you toss them out, make sure they’ve cooled completely and are stored safely.

Let’s keep the warmth in our homes and the fires where they belong. Stay safe, Los Alamos!

Residents and businesses should ensure all hot ashes are fully extinguished before placing them in trash receptacles. This simple precaution will help protect both our community and our waste collection staff and equipment.

Smoldering trash can turn into a serious fire, or, if dumped into a truck during collection, can potentially ignite the entire load and risk the driver, the equipment, and cause potential traffic incidents.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping Los Alamos safe and secure. For additional questions, call 505.662.8163 or email solidwaste@lacnm.us.