Outdoor Fire Pit and Barbecue Safety

With the recent wildfires and lack of rain many Fullerton and County residents are on the alert and concerned about protecting their property and surrounding areas from fire. It only takes a small flying ember from a fire pit or a barbecue to cause a structure, tree or brush fire.

With that in mind, the Fullerton Fire Department asks that you do your part to protect your property and neighborhood by reviewing the following information and taking the appropriate fire safety precautions in your outdoor areas:

Outdoor Fire Pits

• Choose natural gas or propane devices, they are safer and burn cleaner than wood burning devices.Check out the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) website for new regulatory requirements for wood burning devices:www.aqmd.gov/news1/2008/HealthyHearths.html
• Open burning of wood or combustible materials is prohibited during Fire Season Red Flag Days. Check with your local fire department before burning.
• Open burning of wood or combustible materials is also regulated by the AQMD and is prohibited during smog or smoke alert days. Check with your local fire department before burning.
• Do not use fire pits or fireplaces on high wind days.
• All fire pits and portable fireplaces should be placed a minimum of 25 feet from any structure or combustible materials including fences, awnings, overhangs, trees, bushes or dry grass.
• The amount of burn material is limited to 3 feet or less in diameter and 2 feet or less in height.
• Burning trash or yard debris is prohibited.
• Use fire screens and/or spark arresters that properly fit the burning device.
• All outdoor burning should be supervised by an adult.
• Keep children and pets away from burning devices.
• Have a charged garden hose or fire extinguisher available to extinguish the fire.
• Make sure the fire is completely out before you retire for the evening. Use water, sand or dirt to smother any burning embers or ashes.

Outdoor Barbecues (BBQ’S)

• BBQ’s should be placed a minimum of 10 feet away from any structure and combustible materials including fences, awnings, overhangs, trees, bushes or dry grass.
• Charcoal and other open-flame cooking devices are prohibited on most balconies or partially enclosed patio areas. If you live in an apartment or condominium complex check with your property management, homeowners association and/or the Fire Department before purchasing or operating a barbecue in these areas.
• BBQ’s should be placed on a level surface.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the BBQ.
• Check all connections on Propane or Natural Gas BBQ’s before lighting.
• Never use gasoline to start a fire, use only approved starters. Once the barbecue has been ignited never add more fuel to the fire, this can cause a flash over and severe burns.
• Do not wear loose clothing while cooking and be sure to secure long hair.
• Keep children and pets away from BBQ’s.
• Never leave a BBQ unattended.
• Allow charcoal briquettes 48 hours to cool before disposing.
• Never store charcoal briquettes outside where they can get wet, when they dry out they become a flammable solid creating a fire hazard.

For further information please contact the Fullerton Fire Department Fire Prevention Division at (714) 738-6500 or check out the following website links:

Air Quality Management District www.aqmd.gov

Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association www.hpba.org