Can you use fireplace ashes in your compost pile?

fireplace ash, wood ashes, are highly alkaline.... but they're potash(potium).... and great for the plants... just in smaller ammounts than most folks think.... when they say 'sprinkle' your ashes on the lawn, the key word is SPRINKLE.... a little goes a LONG way..... putting them in a compost pile is the same deal... a little now... a little in a couple weeks... a little more later on.... too much anywhere at one time and you take the chance of burning plants or killing off the good stuff in the soil that likes it neutral or a little acidic, pH-wise.....