Residents Reminded to Follow Outdoor Fire Regulations During Ongoing Dry Conditions

As high-risk fire weather continues, Fire Chief Charles Breen reminds residents to be extremely cautious and follow all outdoor fire regulations.

“The Somerville Fire Department encourages residents to be very cautious with outdoor activities as recent weather conditions have left outdoor fuel sources extremely dry, heightening the risk of fire,” Chief Breen said. “Any outdoor fire is likely to spread quickly and become difficult to control due to recent dry conditions. In Somerville, those fires can easily spread to homes and other properties.”

Outdoor burning of yard waste and the use of fire pits and chimineas is prohibited year-round in Somerville. Propane fire pits are allowed if used at ground level, 10 feet from structures, and in accordance with manufacturer instruction. However, residents are advised to be extremely cautious if using this equipment during the current dry conditions.

Chief Breen also recommends the following strategies to help prevent fires during this period of high risk: 

• Outdoor cooking should only be done at ground level, 10 feet from structures, and never under any type of overhang. Any outdoor cooking should not produce flying embers. Especially during the current dry conditions, sparks and embers can easily ignite dry vegetation, debris, and overhanging branches.
• Dispose of ashes from fireplaces, wood stoves, or barbeques in a metal can, douse them with water, and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Ashes can remain hot enough to ignite combustibles long after the fire goes out. Never dump them outdoors or place them inside a building or the trash, and never place them in a combustible container or paper bag. A recent fire in Somerville was the result of ashes from a BBQ grill being emptied into a paper bag.
• Extinguish smoking materials in a sturdy ashtray with water or sand. Never toss cigarette butts, matches, or other smoking materials over the edge of a balcony, porch, or deck. Never stub them out on stairs or railings, or toss them into a potted plant or dry vegetation.
• Candles used on porches or decks should never be left unattended and should be used only on sturdy, non-combustible surfaces. Keep them at least 1 foot away from anything that can catch fire. Fully extinguish them immediately after use.

Residents are reminded to notify SFD if they see any use of grills on porches or outside burning. Always call 911 if you see uncontained flames or smoke, even if it’s small.