Tips for Outdoor Chiminea Safety

With our year-round, mostly pleasant temperatures, people are spending more time outside. At many parties, outdoor fireplaces and chimineas on the patio are popular. They can add both ambiance and warmth on cool evenings.

If you are considering entertaining outdoors using a chiminea, please keep these safety tips in mind:

• Always set your chiminea on a fireproof or fire-resistant surface such as cement, pavers, bricks, slate tiles, terracotta, or any other fire-resistant surface. It should not be on a deck, and your chiminea should be at least ten feet away from any structure or combustible surface.
• Starting the fire
  • Use kindling to create a small fire, then slowly add larger wood to the flame.
  • Keep the fire small. The bigger the fire, the greater the chance for disaster. Please do not touch your chiminea while it is being used.
  • Consider placing a small wall around your chiminea to remind people that getting too close can be dangerous.
• Before lighting, check the weather forecast.
  • Windy conditions can blow embers.
  • Be aware of burn bans or ordinances in your town or county.
• Clear the area around your chiminea — leaves or other dry materials can lead to a fire accidentally spreading.
• Always have a water container nearby and a garden hose before starting the fire.
• Never use an accelerant like gasoline, as it can increase the chances of your clothes catching on fire or the fire spreading rapidly.
• Some chimineas can stay hot for hours after the fire has died down. Make sure children are properly supervised and your guests are aware.