BEAVERTON, Ore. -- Fireplace ashes were to blame for three house fires last weekend, prompting Tualatin Valley fire officials to issue a warning to the community Tuesday.

In Beaverton, a fire started at a house on Watson Avenue when a bag of fireplace ashes was left in the home's living room. The ashes were still warm from a fire the previous day and burnt through the plastic bag, ignited the carpet and spread to a nearby wall. The fire caused $40,000 in damage.

There were two similar cases of ashes causing fires in the area Sunday.

Firefighters issued the following tips to people who were disposing of fireplace ashes:

If possible, allow ashes and coals to cool completely by waiting two to three days before cleaning out your fireplace or woodstove.

If you cannot wait to clean out your fireplace or woodstove, place ashes outside in a metal container with a lid, away from your home and other combustibles.

Other tips when using a fireplace or woodstove:

Have your fireplace or wood stove inspected for cracks and creosote, and cleaned if necessary. Creosote is a shiny, highly flammable material that can coat your chimney flue. When enough creosote is present, it only takes a spark to ignite and cause a chimney fire.

Use only dry, seasoned wood to reduce creosote build-up.

Install a tight-fitting fireplace screen and never leave your fire unattended.

Keep combustible items such as magazines, newspapers, furniture at least 3 feet away.

Check your smoke alarms to ensure they are working in case of fire.

Fireplace Ashes To Blame For Three Fires