Monday fire destroys outbuilding, damages vehicle

The flag at Minden Park was at full sail on Monday morning as firefighters were extinguishing a blaze that claimed an outbuilding and vehicle.

The flag at Minden Park was at full sail on Monday morning as firefighters were extinguishing a blaze that claimed an outbuilding and vehicle.

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Improperly disposed of fireplaces ashes are being cited as the cause of a fire north of Fish Springs that burned an outbuilding to the ground and damaged a vehicle on Monday morning.

East Fork firefighters responded to an address in the 1700 block of Bobwhite Lane 10:20 a.m. after dispatchers received multiple reports of flames.

Firefighters reported knockdown by 10:55 a.m. and called it extinguished by 11:30 a.m.

NV Energy responded to shut off the power to the outbuilding.

There was no report of injuries as a result of the fire.

Four water tenders responded to the fire, along with six engines and five rescues.

The fire occurred a few hours into a high wind warning on Monday that saw a 52 mph wind gusts recorded at Minden-Tahoe Airport as firefighters were arriving on scene.

On Monday afternoon, East Fork Fire Marshal Amy Ray said it was the second recent fire attributed to improperly disposed of fireplace ashes.

Although ashes may seem cool enough to dispose of, ashes will actually retain heat for multiple days.

“As we continue to use our fireplaces during the cold weather, it is important to properly dispose of the ashes after removing them from the fireplace. Improper disposal of ashes that are not completely cooled can lead to the ashes starting a fire in a trash bin or other container used for disposal,” Ray said.

East Fork Fire recommends the following best practices for residents to safely dispose of their fireplace ashes:

• Purchase of a metal can with a lid that can be secured.

• Remove the ashes from the fireplace and place them in the metal can.

• Add water to the ashes and stir through the hot ashes. Secure the can with the lid for at least two days (48 hours).

• Open the lid and add more water, ensuring that the ashes are completely cool before disposal.

There is a bin for ash disposal at the Douglas County Transfer Station.

For additional information, contact the East Fork Fire Protection District at 775-782-9040.