Safety around fires paramount

Following manufacturer’s guidelines and taking some common sense safety steps are paramount in the safe use of outdoor fireplaces and fire pits.

Employees of local specialty retail stores can assist in selection and advise on any required permits as well as any use restrictions. In Nevada, for example, state code limits outdoor wood burning to cooking purposes unless there is a permit, said Tim Szymanski of the Las Vegas Fire Department. There also are product placement restrictions near certain types of buildings, such as remaining 10 feet away from apartment buildings.

Meri-K Appy, president of the national Home Safety Council, also suggests that consumers check out the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Web site for product recalls at www.cpsc.gov and to carefully follow manufacturers’ setup instructions and operation directions.

“Safety around heat sources involves careful supervision and proper placement in an area that is well away from anything that can burn. But by design, some styles offer more protection than others,” Appy said.

“… (For example) Chimineas are shaped like a bowl with sides going all the way up to form a chimney. The shape and design helps keep the fire from getting too large or spreading out of control,” Appy said.

“A fire pit is open fire and there is no chimney flu over the fire. It’s crucial to clear away any vegetation or items that could catch fire if a loose spark escapes. If you’re going to use a fire pit, safety screens are a must.”

Consumer awareness and supervision are key.

“Enjoying a fire outdoors — whether gas-operated or in a fire pit or chiminea — can be a fun way to stay warm during the winter, but it also introduces the potential for devastating fire and burn injuries. The key to safety is control. To protect your loved ones, your property, wildlife and the environment, make sure any open flame is constantly supervised by a sober, attentive adult,” Appy said.