Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District (TMFPD) Chief Charlie Moore is encouraging the public to dispose of oily rags and ash into fire-safe containers, such as ash cans that the county is giving free to the public.
Four structure fires in recent months are attributed to the improper disposal of ash and oily rags, Moore said.
Moore said that TMFPD has a limited supply of cans available at the Washoe County complex, on East Ninth Street, in Building D, and that 200 additional cans are on order for seniors and other members of the public. Another news announcement will be made when the additional cans arrive.
“We want to heighten awareness through our Free Ash Can Program. Disposing of ash and cotton rags soaked with staining oils can be dangerous. Citizens need to know how these fires start in order to prevent a more serious fire in this very dry period of the summer,” said Moore.
Commissioner Vaughn Hartung said the TMFPD program will help keep people safe.
“I, myself, have had to dispose of oily rags in my garage and know the importance of a program such as this firsthand,” said Commissioner Hartung, Dist. 4. “I appreciate your efforts, Chief. This program could save homes and lives.”
