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What Safety Precautions Should I Take with An Outdoor Fireplace?

With the warmer weather approaching, you may be eager to get outside and sit around your outdoor fireplace. While doing so can have many benefits, it’s also important to make sure you keep safety in mind, ensuring outdoor fireplace safety is a priority for everyone.



What should I do before I light the first outdoor fire of the season?

Seasonal fireplace preparation is crucial. Having your chimney professionally cleaned at the beginning of the season by chimney cleaning professionals will ensure that there is no creosote or other obstructions that could catch fire. This firebox maintenance step is vital. If you have a gas fireplace, the integrity of the gas lines should be checked as well, reinforcing gas fireplace safety checks.

How can I keep my children, pets, and belongings safe when using an outdoor fireplace?

Fire safety for children is paramount; it’s never too soon to teach them about fire safety in an age-appropriate manner. Similarly, protecting pets from fire and keeping your belongings at a safe distance are essential precautions. Utilizing a fire screen can offer additional fire screen benefits by providing a barrier that protects loved ones and belongings.


RELATED: Best Outdoor Fireplaces : Enjoy the Outdoors this Summer


How can I best extinguish a fire in my outdoor fireplace?

Extinguishing outdoor fires properly is crucial for safety. NEVER leave a fire unattended and allow the fire in a wood-burning fireplace to burn out naturally while you are nearby. This method ensures that any potential hazards are closely monitored.


What should I do in the event that the fire burns out of control?

Having emergency fire supplies such as sand, a garden hose, buckets of water, and/or a fire extinguisher for outdoor use close at hand is essential for outdoor fire emergency preparedness.


How can I minimize the risk of a fire burning out of control?

Minimizing fire risks outdoors involves keeping a 10-foot area around your fireplace free of debris, which helps in preventing outdoor fire hazards. Adhering to safe burning practices, like not using accelerants and ensuring any wood fits within the firebox, are key steps in maintaining safety.


How can I clean my outdoor fireplace? (Bold and make bigger)

Cleaning outdoor fireplaces is a straightforward process that involves removing cooled ash, using soapy water and a scrub brush for the metal screen, and a water and vinegar mixture for the glass front. This routine maintenance ensures your fireplace remains a safe, welcoming space for family and friends.



Ensuring safety around your outdoor fireplace involves diligent preparation, including cleaning and maintenance, and educating all on fire safety. By adopting practices like using fire screens, keeping emergency supplies ready, and adhering to safe burning guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace worry-free. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in preserving the pleasure and safety of your outdoor gatherings. Embrace these measures to keep your fireside experiences both delightful and secure.


If you have any questions about outdoor fireplace safety precautions don’t hesitate to contact My Fireplace at one of our two locations:

43993 Talbot Line Hwy #3, St. Thomas 519-633-4256
4026 Meadowbrook Dr., Unit 109, London 519-652-2774