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With the unofficial start of summer this Victoria Day long weekend, City of Winnipeg is reminding residents to always use approved fire pits or receptacles when enjoying a backyard fire.
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“Every year fire crews are called out to incidents where an outside fire in a fire pit has extended to adjoining structures and damaged decks, fences, sheds, garages, or other combustible materials,” said Lisa Gilmour, Assistant Chief of Community Risk Reduction for the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service.
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While permits are not required to operate fire pits in residential yards, they must meet bylaw requirements to help ensure a safe burning experience for all parties involved.
Fire pits must be enclosed on all sides and made of bricks, concrete, heavy gauge metal, or other non-combustible materials. They must be located at least 10 feet from other structures, and the opening must be covered by a spark arrestor, grille, or mesh.
“All fires must be kept under control, and you must have a means of extinguishing a fire nearby, such as sand or a water hose. And do not remove your spark arrestor or cover because it is there to prevent sparks or embers from landing on your home, deck, garage or other structure and starting a fire,” said Gilmour.
Only clean, dry, untreated and unpainted wood can be burned within city limits. Burning yard waste is not permitted, as it produces excessive smoke that can disturb neighbours.
Residents are reminded that outdoor fires are prohibited in Winnipeg when wind speeds exceed 25 km/h.
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