With the warmer weather finally coming, residents will be moving to outdoor activities for recreation. One of these outdoor activities can include lighting up an out door fireplace such as chiminea or fire pit.

If you already have an outdoor fireplace or are thinking of purchasing one, there are many factors to consider. Keep in mind that you are using a “fire place” and the safety for your family, property, and possibly your neighbors depend on it.

Residents are to adhere to the following when burning in a fireplace:

• According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the ONLY item allowed to be burned is clean dry wood. Pressure treated wood, garbage, plastic and leaves are prohibited.

• Fires must be maintained at a reasonable size. Smoke emitted from the outdoor fireplace shall not infringe on any neighbor’s health, safety, comfort, or quiet enjoyment of his residence.

• Fireplaces must be attended to at ALL TIMES.

• Fires in a fireplace must be put out when no one is near the fireplace to attend to it.

• Be aware that it may tip over by accident, by an animal running/brushing into it or a child, etc. thus creating a fire situation.

• When in use, the unit shall be placed on a noncombustible surface and positioned away from any structure or combustible object to avoid sparks flying and destroying anything in its path. Remember: sparks go upward as well as outward.

• A portable fire extinguisher, pail of water or connected garden hose shall be kept near the unit while it is in use.

For more information please contact the Upper Saddle River Fire Official, Terry Ferber, at 201-327-4343 or NJDEP’s Northern Regional Office at 973-656-4444.

 

 

 

Updated April 29, 2009