The Provincial Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding Islanders to use caution when enjoying fires in backyard burning devices.
“With the onset of spring, comes the desire to enjoy the outdoors and that might include the use of backyard wood burning appliances or fireplaces,” said Fire Marshal David Blacquiere. “However, I urge Islanders to take precautions when enjoying outdoor fires in these appliances to ensure the safety of both family and property.”
The Fire Marshal’s Office offers the following tips:
• Check with your municipality for by-laws regulating the operation of outdoor wood burning appliances or fireplaces.
• Ensure the wood burning appliance or fireplace is assembled and placed according to the manufacturer's instructions, and that all of the components are installed properly including the spark screen, chimney, and other parts.
• Place your appliance at a safe distance from any structure or combustible materials especially fine fuels such as dry grass, wood mulches, and kindling.
• Ensure the surface below your appliance is not at risk of ignition.
• Make sure the fire is attended by a competent person at all times.
• Be cautious that the smoke is not creating a problem for your neighbours. Air exchangers can transfer smoke into a house.
• Keep a water hose or other fire extinguishing equipment nearby.
• Before retiring for the night or leaving the area, ensure that the fire has been completely extinguished , the risk of re-ignition has been eliminated and the site is inspected for anything that might be smoldering nearby. Hot ash and embers may re-ignite, especially if the wind rises, and can spread quickly in a slight breeze.
Particular caution should be used when there are dry grasses near the burner or after dry periods as these materials can be ignited by sparks from a device that is not working properly or when it is opened during a wind gust.
The Provincial Fire Marshal’s Office is a section of the Office of the Attorney General and Public Safety. For more information call 368-4869 or go to www.peipublicsafety.ca.