To eliminate the possibility of accidental flare ups, always cool down used charcoal and ash. Here are a couple of common methods for extinguishing and cooling coals:

Suffocate the fire for 2 full days. Simply close the side on your grill and shut the vents until the ash has completely cooled for at least 48 hours.

Douse coals with water. By slowly pouring water over the charcoal and stirring, you can cool ash quickly and completely, eliminating the possibility of dormant embers reigniting. Be careful — make sure you pour the water slowly to avoid creating hot steam.

Once your used charcoal and ash is completely cold, you can throw it away. We recommend thoroughly wrapping it in aluminum foil before tossing it into a non-combustible outdoor trash receptacle.

Never compost or fertilize with old briquets. The ingredients in Kingsford® and Kingsford® Match Light® briquets don’t aid in the breakdown of organic matter.