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Police/Fire/EMS

Piermont Fire Department Warns Residents About Safe Fireplace Ash Disposal After Brush Fire

Published

5 months ago

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Residents are urged to be mindful of how they dispose of fireplace ashes and hot coals. Yesterday, the Piermont Fire Department responded to a small brush fire located approximately 10 feet from a structure. The fire was caused when a resident disposed of hot fireplace coals into a leaf pile that was covered with snow. Despite the cold conditions, the coals continued to smolder and ignited nearby debris.

To safely dispose of fireplace coals, residents should first ensure the ashes are completely cold—this can take several days. Soaking ashes with water can help speed up the cooling process. Once fully cooled, scoop the ashes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. The container should be stored outdoors and away from structures.

Cold fireplace ashes may be placed in outdoor trash, used sparingly in gardens for soil enrichment or pest control, or added to compost after thoroughly soaking them. Never dispose of hot or warm ashes in plastic bins, cardboard containers, or near combustible materials. Hot coals can retain heat for days and pose a serious fire risk if improperly discarded.

Fire officials remind residents that proper ash disposal is essential to preventing accidental fires and keeping homes and neighborhoods safe.

Photo courtesy of the Piermont Fire Department

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Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Officers Help Free Bear Cub Trapped by Container in Hillburn

Published

21 hours ago

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June 6, 2026

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This afternoon, officers from the Ramapo Police Department responded to Brook Street in Hillburn after receiving a report of a bear cub with a container stuck on its head.

Upon arrival, officers worked alongside the concerned caller to safely remove the container, freeing the cub from what could have become a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Once released, the bear cub quickly ran off into the nearby woods unharmed.

The Ramapo Police Department appreciates the caller’s vigilance and willingness to assist. Quick reporting and community awareness can make a significant difference, not only for public safety but also for the welfare of local wildlife.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of properly disposing of containers and other waste that can pose hazards to animals. Thanks to the combined efforts of a concerned resident and responding officers, this young bear was able to safely return to its natural habitat.

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Police/Fire/EMS

Ramapo Police Participate in Countywide Gun Buyback Initiative

Published

1 day ago

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June 6, 2026

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The Rockland County Sheriff’s Office hosted a successful Gun Buyback Event, and the Ramapo Police Department was proud to participate in this collaborative community safety initiative alongside the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, the Spring Valley Police Department, and the New York State Police.

Together, agencies collected a total of 19 firearms, including 11 handguns, 3 assault rifles, and 5 long guns.

Every firearm voluntarily surrendered represents one less opportunity for a weapon to be lost, stolen, misused, or involved in a tragedy. Gun buyback programs play an important role in reducing the number of unwanted firearms in our communities and promoting public safety.

The Ramapo Police Department is proud to support these efforts and remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to help build a safer community for all.

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