Grilling, Gasoline, and Smoking Among Outdoor Fire Hazards

As Massachusetts approaches the start of summer, State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine is asking residents to practice outdoor fire safety in the weeks and months ahead.

“As the weather gets warmer and we start spending more time outside, outdoor fires also start to increase,” State Fire Marshal Davine said. “Unfortunately, many of these fires cause serious injuries and property damage – but almost all of them can be prevented.”

Outdoor burning is prohibited in Massachusetts from May 1 to January 15. While regulations allow exceptions for fires that are used for cooking, local fire chiefs and municipalities may prohibit or impose additional restrictions on these fires, including the use of fire pits and chimineas. Even where allowed, an adult must always be present with the tools necessary to extinguish such a fire immediately because of the inherent risk. 

“We saw last fall just how quickly brush and wildland fires can grow to sizes that require a large response by local and regional fire departments,” said State Fire Marshal Davine. “These fires strain our resources and make it harder to respond to other emergencies. If you see an outdoor fire, please call 9-1-1 to report it as soon as possible.”

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