Fire Pit Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Know
Fire pits are a popular way to bring warmth and atmosphere to outdoor spaces. However, using them safely is essential to avoid accidents. Common risks include fire spreading, using lighter fluid, or placing fire pits on flammable surfaces like a wood deck. With the right precautions, a fire pit can be a safe and enjoyable feature for your home.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Fire Pit
Always position your fire pit at a safe distance from your home, fences, trees, and any electrical wiring, to minimise the risk of fire spreading. A minimum of 10 feet is generally recommended, though checking local safety guidelines is advisable.
Placement Tips for Fire Pit Safety
Placing a fire pit on a wooden deck or similar surface can be dangerous. Fire bowls and fire pits can reach high temperatures and emit sparks, which may cause the surface to catch fire. Similarly, dry grass or leaves should be avoided – as these surfaces increase the chance of ignition from stray embers.
Instead, use non-combustible bases like stone, brick, or a heat-resistant fire pit mat to create a stable and safe setup. Our corten steel fire pit stands are ideal for positioning your new fire pit safely in your garden.
Fire Pit Preparation and Setup
Always start by reviewing local guidelines for open fires, which may include restrictions on their use during dry conditions or in specific areas. Once you are familiar with these guidelines, you can begin setting up your new fire pit.
Lighting Your Fire Pit Safely
When preparing to light your fire pit, avoid using lighter fluid or similar accelerants. These can release toxic fumes and cause the fire to ignite uncontrollably, increasing the risk of accidents. Instead, opt for safer methods such as firelighters or briquettes.
Keep an Eye on the Sky
Windy days pose a significant risk as strong gusts can carry embers to surrounding flammable surfaces, such as dry grass or wooden structures, and unintentionally start a fire. Likewise, avoid using a fire pit during extremely dry conditions, when the surrounding area is more susceptible to ignition.
Maintain a Clean Fire
Prepare your fire pit by ensuring it is clean and free from debris before each use. You can also place a spark guard or screen over the fire to contain embers and prevent them from escaping. By taking these precautions, you create a safe setup that minimises risks and ensures an enjoyable experience.
Fire Pit Safety While Burning
Once your fire pit is lit, always maintain a clear safety zone around it. Keep children and pets at a safe distance – at least 3 metres is recommended – to prevent accidental contact with flames or hot surfaces. Make sure the fire pit is supervised at all times by a responsible adult who can respond quickly if needed.
Activities Around Your Fire Pit
A fire pit can really complete an evening spent outside, especially with friends and family. However, while outdoor gatherings often include drinks, excessive alcohol consumption can impair judgment and coordination – increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Encourage responsible behaviour among guests to minimise risks around the fire pit.
Be Mindful of Your Fuel
Use only seasoned wood or materials specifically intended for fire pits. Burning inappropriate materials, such as treated wood, plastics, or rubbish, can release toxic fumes and create additional hazards. You should also avoid using wood that produces excessive sparks or resin, which can easily escape the pit and cause surrounding areas to catch fire.
Stay Vigilant
Never leave your fire unattended. A fire can escalate quickly, even if it appears to be burning down. Always have a fire extinguisher, sand, or a bucket of water nearby to address unexpected flare-ups, and when you’re finished, ensure the fire is completely extinguished – as embers can smoulder for hours and reignite if left unchecked.
Extinguishing the Fire Properly – 5 Steps
Speaking of safely extinguishing your fire pit, follow these steps to ensure the fire is completely out:
- Let the Fire Burn Down: Allow the flames to naturally reduce until only embers remain. Avoid adding any more wood as the fire winds down.
- Spread the Ashes: Use a fire-safe tool to spread the embers and ashes out across the bottom of the fire pit. This helps them cool faster and prevents heat from concentrating in one area.
- Douse with Water: Slowly pour water over the embers, making sure to thoroughly soak all areas. Listen for hissing sounds, which indicate the embers are still hot. Stir the ashes with a metal poker or shovel to ensure no heat remains.
- Check for Residual Heat: After soaking, carefully hover your hand a safe distance above the ashes to check for warmth. Repeat the dousing process if you feel any heat.
- Dispose of Ashes Safely: Only remove ashes once they are completely cool. Place them in a metal container with a lid and store away from any flammable surfaces.
Maintenance and Long-Term Safety
Check for any signs of wear, rust, or structural damage, particularly in metal fire pits, as these issues can compromise safety. Cleaning your fire pit after every use is equally important – remember to remove cooled ashes and debris with a shovel or scoop, and dispose of them in a metal container. Leftover ash can block proper airflow, making future fires harder to control. Cleaning also prevents build-up that could ignite unexpectedly.
For long-term care, store portable fire pits in a covered area or use a weatherproof cover to protect them from the elements. With their inherent resilience and low maintenance requirements, our corten steel fire pits can be enjoyed with minimal effort for years to come.
Ensuring Fire Pit Safety at Home
A fire pit can complete your outdoor space, making it the perfect location to relax or host social gatherings. But proper safety should always be practised when working with these versatile and striking garden features. By choosing the right location, preparing and maintaining your fire pit properly, and following essential safety practices, you can minimise risks and focus on enjoying this new addition to your garden.
We offer a range of durable corten steel fire pits and accessories to help you create a safe and stylish outdoor experience. Browse our selection or contact our team for expert advice on finding the perfect fire pit for your garden.
