Before buying your fire pit, make sure you understand your city bylaws regarding their use.
Read the manual that comes with your fire pit and follow instructions. Call the manufacturer regarding any questions you may have.
Always keep a fire extinguisher handy, and make sure it is in good working condition, and not close to its expiration date. Use safety gloves when handling a hot fire pit.
Don't place a fire pit in an enclosed area, as fumes from it can be harmful without proper ventilation.
Never place your fire pit on a wooden deck, near structures, hanging branches, or on an unsteady surface.
Operating Your Fire Pit
Start your fire small, and only use the recommended fire starters. Never use gasoline to start a fire.
In a wood burning fire pit, never pile on wood too high as you don't want burning pellets to spill out.
Children should not be allowed near fire pits which should be adult-supervised at all times. Never leave the fire unattended.
Use screens for protection from wind and to prevent sparks from flying out. Avoid using a fire pit when it is very windy.
Extinguishing the Fire
Make sure to extinguish the fire completely once you have finished using it. Follow your manufacturer's instructions. Use a fire extinguisher, or enough water to let the hot coals or wood soak. Continue to pour water till there's no steam
Cover with a lid after you have put the fire out.
Do not store the coals or wood in bags right away, but use a metal ash bucket instead.
Outdoor Fireplaces
All references are from the following sources:
City Of Moose Jaw Bylaw #5070 Province Of Saskatchewan Fire Prevention Act 1992 National Fire Code 1995 National Building Code 1995
A spark arrestor cap is required on top of the chimney and must also be screened. (Spaces in the screen must be smaller than 6.3 mm or 1/4")
A chimney is required on all wood burning appliances. The chimney must be a minimum of .6 metres (2 ft.)
Always use a non-combustible hearth pad or brick pavers underneath a wood-burning fireplace on top of combustible materials such as wood decking. This will protect against fire or heat damage.
All wood burning appliances must have a door. No Open Fronts – must be enclosed or screened.
All wood burning appliances must be at least 3 metres (10 ft.) from any vegetation or combustible material such as fences, garages, houses etc.
All purchased appliances must be approved and have an approved sticker or tag from one of the following governing agencies: U.L.; ULC; Warnock-Hersey
All appliances must be maintained to original operating condition
Homemade appliances must meet all of the above requirements. An inspection by this department must be conducted for an approval to use the appliance
Only clean, dry wood must be burnt in these appliances. If leaves, garbage, treated wood or other combustibles are used – You may be charged with an Infraction under Bylaw 5070 by the Moose Jaw Police Service.
Also make sure you have adequate insurance coverage in place. Call Heritage Insurance, LTD at (800) 667-7640 for a free Moose Jaw home insurance quote.