Fire Pit Safety Tips

3/4/2020 (Permalink)

With more pleasant weather approaching, keep these useful tips in mind-

DO: Build your fire pit on a level surface Make sure the ground or surface is even to reduce the risk of fire escaping beyond your fire pit.

DO: Keep the fire at a safe distance. To keep your fire from causing damage, build the fire pit at least 10 feet from your home, fences, trees and the like.

DON’T: Use gasoline or lighter fluid Never use gasoline or kerosene to start your fire; such fuels can cause a fire to get out of control quickly. Instead, use dry wood as kindling that doesn’t extend beyond the edge of the pit.

DO: Monitor guests around fire pits. Make sure guests maintain a proper distance and don’t exhibit risky behavior. Keep close tabs on children and pets.

DO: Check the weather report
Avoid using your fire pit on windy days, since flames or embers can spread to your home, yard and nearby trees.

DON’T: Leave a fire unattended
Even if your fire pit is small, flames can spread quickly if left unattended. Monitor at all times.

DO: Put your fire out safely
Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool. Leave only when they’re cool to the touch.

DO: Have an emergency plan
Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of sand close to douse the fire in case it gets out of hand. If you can’t put it out quickly, call 9-1-1.