Offset Smoker on a Wood Deck???

[Dewesq55]

Fellow Pitmasters:

Does anybody think it is practical/reasonable to have an offset smoker (both charcoal and stick-burning) on a would deck? If so, any ideas on how to protect the deck and associated structures from fire?

[Ahumadora]

CaptainMike Is your man for what burns down a house. He would know best what's available and would work. He maybe busy though.

I heard he is writing a book about the time he fought a 5000 acre bush fire on a small desert island with only a teaspoon and 1lb bag of kosher salt while wearing only a banana hammock...

[Mr. Bones]

Lay down a suitable sized piece of Hardiebacker, replace when / if needed...

Helluva lot cheaper than roastin a deck, or a house.

[CaptainMike]

What Mr. Bones said, that's what I do. Maintain at least 36" clearance from combustibles, clean any debris from under the deck, have a charged garden hose or dry chem extinguisher handy, and never leave a live fire device unattended, as in don't leave the house. I plan my cooks so that I don't overnight them, I probably would be too paranoid to sleep anyway.

BTW, have I ever told you the story of vacationing on a small desert island? Well, I was sunbathing on the beach in my Speedo when I smelled smoke. I turned my head and gasped aloud "Oh my God" at the awesome spectacle that befell me. I grabbed what was close at hand and sprang into action..........

[JGo37]

It's perfectly okay:

[DavidNorcross]

I will defer to the professionals. For me no matter where it is located, it is fire so be careful which I am sure you already are.