For many homeowners, the backyard has become a prime medium to show off their decorating skills and hosting abilities.
A simple deck and grill just don’t do the trick nowadays with many people opting to upgrade and accessorize with ponds, outdoor bars, and extravagant flower beds.
The latest accessory to pop up in yards across the country is fire pits. Whether you already have one or are considering adding it to your home, there are many things you should keep in mind to guarantee safety.
1. Do Your Homework
Before getting started with an elaborate design for your fire pit, check out your local ordinances.
Some cities and counties ban any open burning, so save yourself the time and money by confirming your community’s guidelines.
Before Using
Once you’ve checked your city’s rules follow these tips:
- Follow the fire pit’s manual and don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer if you’re unsure of something.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and brush up on how to use one if you don’t know or it’s been a while.
- Place your fire pit, at a minimum, 10 feet from any other structure and ensure that it’s not in an enclosed area without proper ventilation.
- Remember, surface matters. Place your fire pit on non-flammable surfaces like concrete and avoid a wooden deck or directly on the grass.
While Using
You’ve gone through all the proper procedures, and you’ve got yourself a regulation fire pit. Here are some important tips to keep in mind while enjoying your new yard accessory:
- Keep an eye on it. Don’t leave kids or pets unattended with a burning fire.
- Fire pit does not equal a garbage disposal. While using paper to start a fire is recommended, be mindful of what you’re tossing in the fire and don’t overload with paper, trash, or logs.
- Avoid using soft woods, like pine or cedar, as they are more likely to “pop” and can spread embers.
- Accidents are inevitable, keep a bucket of sand or a hose nearby as an extra safeguard.
2. Extingusihing Your Fire
Your family smores night is coming to a close, and you can’t wait to jump in bed, BUT this is perhaps the most important time to remember your fire pit duties. At the end of your use it’s critical you adequately extinguish your fire:
- Pour enough water over your fire to completely soak coals or wood. Continue until there’s no steam.
- Stick around until all logs have burned out and the embers have had time to cool fully.
- Don’t discard ashes into anything combustible like a trash can, paper bag or compost pile.
3. AdditionalTips
- Screens can add extra protection against the wind and flying sparks.
- Use heavier chairs and position them far enough away from the fire to prevent any accidents for family or guests.
- Don’t wear flammable materials (like nylon) and avoid loose-fitting clothes.
- Take your time when building a fire, don’t toss gasoline or wads of paper on a growing fire. Be patient, and you’ll have a safe fire in no time!
Do you have a fire pit in your backyard? Let us know why you love it and any other safety tips you follow!
