A Message from Fire Marshal Patrick McKenna

Fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas or similar portable devices may be used but only when the following requirements and conditions are met:

1. Any person operating a fire pit, fire bowl, chiminea or similar portable device must have permission from the landowner.
2. There must be one person at least 18 years of age present to assume responsibility for the use of these devices.
3. Use of fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas and similar portable devices must be a minimum of 15 feet away from any building or structure in all directions.
4. The use of fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas or similar portable devices on a balcony or deck is prohibited.
5. The burning of any type of construction material and/or trash is prohibited.
6. The use of any type of flammable or combustible liquid at any time is prohibited.
7. A garden hose connected to a constant water source or extinguishing device must be stored close by, available and operational in the event of an emergency.
8. Users must dispose of all ashes in a safe manner. After 24 hours has passed, all leftover hot ashes must be thoroughly dampened, cooled, and stored in a metal can that is used solely for ash storage. The metal can should be a minimum of five feet from any structure. Ashes that are two or three days old may appear to be safe but can still retain enough heat to cause an unwanted fire. Do not discard hot ashes in a compost pile, paper bag, cardboard box, or anything that is combustible.
9. The use of fire pits, fire bowls, chimineas or similar portable devices without taking the proper precautions, including but not limited to the requirements and conditions described above, is strictly prohibited. If said use is determined by the Middletown Volunteer Fire Department to be hazardous, it may result in the fire being extinguished by the Fire Department.

PLEASE HELP KEEP OUR TOWN SAFE FOR EVERYONE