Abstract: A safety trash container for disposal of cigars, cigarettes, papers and the like, comprising in combination a receptacle having an opening at one end and a closure member adapted to fit the opening. Structure is provided within the receptacle for mounting the closure member for movement between an open position wherein the opening of the receptacle is exposed and accessible for deposit of trash, and a closed position wherein the opening is substantially sealed off. A heat responsive mechanism is also provided within the receptacle, for sensing a rise in its internal temperature due to inadvertent ignition of the contents thereof, and a powered operator device is associated with the mounting structure for the closure member and connected with the latter for advancing it to its closed position in response to operation of the heat-responsive mechanism, thereby sealing off the receptacle opening and confining and smothering any flames resulting from a fire occurring therein.