A fire pit is a great way to have fun outdoors while gathering with friends and family. However, they can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. This article lists a few fire pit safety tips that will help guarantee your evening with friends is incident-free.

As a general rule, fire pit safety should be high on your list of priorities to protect your guests and property. Here are some of the things to keep in mind.

Choose a Safe Location

Make sure your fire pit is on a fire-resistant surface and there is nothing around that can easily catch fire. If the fire pit comes with a screen, use it to keep embers and sparks from escaping.

Also, make sure that the fire cannot spread into the surrounding area by placing non-flammable materials like rocks or sand in a ring around the pit.

Fire Pit Safety with Children

Keep pets and kids a safe distance from the fire pit and never leave them unattended while the fire is burning. Teach children to keep at least 10 feet away from the flames.

Safety Equipment

Have safety equipment including a fire extinguisher and a bucket of sand nearby. A fire safety blanket can be used to extinguish flames on clothing or in the grass.

Fire Pit Safety: Don’ts

There are a few things you shouldn’t do when you’re enjoying a fire pit. Here is a quick list to help keep you and your family safe.

Don’t Leave the Fire Unattended

An unattended fire is dangerous because you cannot monitor the safety of the area from afar. A stray spark or ember can quickly start a fire in your absence. In some areas it’s illegal to leave a fire unattended, so check your local laws to be informed.

Don’t Burn During a Fire Ban

Do not build a fire if the fire department has issued a fire ban due to excessive dry weather or strong winds. These bans are in place to keep you and your community safe.

For Safety, Do Not Burn Garbage in the Fire Pit

Trash should not be used as fuel for a fire. This includes plastic, Styrofoam, and cardboard. Burning garbage releases harmful chemicals into the air that are unsafe to breathe. Garbage can catch fire and float up with the smoke and start another fire elsewhere.

Fire pits are fun and provide warmth on a chilly evening, but fire safety rules should always take precedent. Make sure your family and friends know the safety do’s and don’ts to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.

A Plus Inspections of Texas provides inspections to customers in Conroe, TX, and the surrounded areas. Contact us to schedule an appointment.