While fire pits have many benefits, safety is significant
Fire pits are an excellent home addition, especially if you live in a rural area. They have aesthetic appeal, are cost-effective, and help you enjoy your backyard even during the colder seasons. While fire pits have many benefits, safety is significant. If mishandled, a residential fire may occur. You could also jeopardize the safety of others. If you own a fire pit or are thinking about investing in one, keep reading to learn some fit pit safety tips.
How to Position
Make sure that it’s at least ten feet away from any structure or your neighbor’s yard. Twenty feet is even better. Do not place it under a covered porch or trees branches that hang low. Patio blocks or concrete are ideal surfaces for a fire pit to sit on because they are non-flammable. Fire pits also should not sit on a wooden deck or directly on a grassy area.
How to Prepare
All flammable materials should be away from your fire pit as you prepare to use it. A good rule of thumb is that all combustible materials should at least be five feet away. What will help fire on the ground from escaping is piling dirt or rock around the pit. For you to keep flames from spreading, a fire pit should be at least six inches deep and two feet across.
How to Light
Make sure to pay attention to what direction the wind is blowing before lighting your fire pit. Make sure that the wind isn’t blowing downward or underneath the fire pit. If it’s very windy outside, don’t use the fire pit at all. A commercial fire starter stick with kindling is also best for lighting rather than lighter fluid. Lighter fluid and gasoline are flammable and a fire safety hazard.
How to Use
Look at your fire pit continuously and never leave it unattended, especially when it comes to children or pets. Wire mesh covers can keep embers contained and prevent children or pets from falling into the fire pit. You should never use garbage or paper products to light a fire pit and softwoods such as pine and cedar cause flames to spark. Using too much fuel can make controlling the fire difficult. Use just enough.
How to Extinguish
Always keep a shovel near you so that you can quickly control flames or put the fire out altogether. Use water to extinguish the fire. Then, stir your shovel as a precaution to make sure that the flames are completely out. Make sure to dispose of ashes, but not in a combustible container such as a cardboard box or paper bag.