Purpose:

Outdoor warming fires can be common during cold periods. These guidelines are established so that warming fires may be allowed provided that certain safeguards are followed.

Policy:

Warming fires at construction sites, utility repair sites, Christmas tree lots, etc are allowed provided the following conditions are met:

• The fire must be contained in an approved noncombustible container located in a safe area and not within 15 feet from any structure, combustible waste or fuel source.
• A competent person must constantly attend the fire at all times.
• Suitable fire extinguishing equipment such as a water hose hooked to an available water supply, fire extinguishers, etc. shall be maintained and available for use.
• When atmospheric or local conditions are such that make the fire unusually hazardous, the fire official or fire officer has the right to prohibit or require immediate extinguishment of the fire.

When a fire company is dispatched to a warming fire and the fire is not being maintained in accordance with the criteria listed above, the company officer is authorized to extinguish the fire and, at his or her discretion, issue an immediate citation to the person in charge of the site.