Fire FAQs

Springfield Township Fire Pit Use Guidelines

In recognition of the growing popularity of the use of fire pits, fire bowls, chimneas, and other similar outdoor wood-burning appliances, the Springfield Township Fire Marshal offers the following guidelines for use:

1. Appliances may only be used on residential property. No appliance may be used without the permission of the property owner;

2. At all times during the use of the appliance, the fire must be constantly attended by a responsible party present on site;

3. A permit from the Fire Marshal is not required

4. Use of the appliance must be in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines;

5. Use of each appliance must be kept at a reasonable and safe distance away from combustible construction. An area of at least 3 feet around the appliance must be kept clear of any material that can easily burn;

6. Appliances may not be used on balconies or decks;

7. Only dried, aged wood may be used in appliances. The burning of freshly cut wood, leaves, trash, construction material, or any other non-approved material is expressly prohibited;

8. Flammable or combustible liquids should not be used as an accelerant;

9. A fire extinguisher, garden hose, or other means of fire suppression must be kept nearby when an appliance is in use;

10. Appliances may not be used on Code Orange or Code Red air quality days;

11. Ashes must be disposed of safely: the user should wait at least 24 hours for ashes to cool, at which point they should be disposed of in a metal container used for ash storage and kept outside. Ashes that are insufficiently cool pose a serious fire hazard, and should never be discarded in a compost pile, paper bag, cardboard box or other combustible container;

12. The Fire Marshal, Fire Chief, or Police Officer has discretion at all times to determine safe use of appliances. If the Fire Marshal, Fire Chief or Police Officer determine the fire to be noxious, hazardous, or excessive to the immediate surrounding area by reason of smoke, noxious odor, sparks, embers, brands or hot ashes, that may pose a safety threat, they may order the fire be immediately extinguished. 

What kinds of fire extinguisher should I purchase for my home and where should it be located?

Residential fire extinguishers should be of the multi-purpose variety labeled "ABC" and capable of being used on all types of fires.  It should be large enough to extinguish a small fire but not so heavy that it cannot be easily handled.  Install the fire extinguisher close to an exit. It is recommended that you use a fire extinguisher only when a fire is confined to a small area and everyone is out of the dwelling.

Should I have a carbon monoxide detector in my home?

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, and colorless gas that can poison humans and animals over short and extended periods of time.  It is recommended that all dwellings be equipped with a carbon monoxide alarm located outside of the sleeping area and on every floor level.

How often should I replace my smoke detectors?

It is recommended that smoke detectors be replaced every ten years.  Batteries should be replaced every six months.

The fire company recently responded to my home and I would like to make a donation to them. How can I do so?

Flourtown Fire Company

Oreland Volunteer Fire Company

Wyndmoor Hose Company

The Community Association of Ambler (CAA) is the designated emergency medical services provider for Springfield Township.