Hard lump charcoal help needed on a kettle 18.5

[EricD]

All great advise here.  I had a similar problem a few weeks ago.  My wife noticed a small piece of glowing ember fell through the vent.  Landed in the ash pan, but ".....we're in a drought! That is so bad! get some water quick!...." and on and on and on...  Really not a big deal, but she said so.   Now, when she's around.  I close the bottom dampers when I dump my chimney. Then open to where I need them.
Congrats on the new Kettle.  You're gonna love it!