Chimeneas and Outdoor Fireplace Safety
More and more people are using chimneas and outdoor fireplaces than ever before. It is important to always remember that anytime you work with fire, there is a chance of losing control of it or getting burned.
The St. John’s Regional Fire Department (SJRFD) would like to remind all residents if you are considering the purchase of one, always be aware of any regulations governing their use and any special considerations connected with a device with the potential for fire.
The following fire safety precautions will help ensure these devices are operated in a safe manner:
- Wind speeds are not in excess of 25 km per hour.
- Smoke does not cause an annoyance to adjoining properties.
These open air fireplaces are required to be:
- Installed in conformance with manufacturer’s instruction if supplied.
- Located at least 3 meters from any building, structure or combustible material.
- Capable of completely containing/enclosing the fire.
- Equipped with a spark arrestor and/or screen to prevent escape of sparks and/or embers.
- Placed on a firm and level surface which has a non-combustible base beneath it, a minimum of 0.5 m completely outside the perimeter of the unit.
- Attended by someone with access to a fire extinguisher, bucket of water or another water source while operating. A copy of the complete regulations can be obtained at the St. John’s and Mount Pearl web sites.
General Safety
- Never use gasoline, kerosene, starter fluids or any other substance that may create a rapid build-up of fire.
- DO NOT use any of these outdoor devices inside your home.
- These units are not intended as a primary heat source.
- Properly dispose of ashes once the fire is out.
- Allow them to cool before disposing, otherwise, douse with plenty of water and NEVER place them in plastic, paper, or wooden container, only metal.
For more information contact:
Captain Mike Maher
Fire Prevention Officer
St. John’s Regional Fire Department
(709) 576-3905 E-mail: fireprevention@stjohns.ca