Fire Pit Safety

Great safety tips for using your fire pit!
Fire pits can be a great outdoor accessory on those cool evenings outside. Everyone enjoys hanging out with friends around a blazing fire. It is inviting and is the central point of any get together. It is important to make sure that it is also as safe as possible so you are able to enjoy it without the worry of any accidents.

Anytime you are dealing with an open flame it is important to always be responsible and take the necessary precautions to avoid any accidents. If you are going to be using your fire pit on a wood patio or deck, it is important to have a fire pit pad underneath it so that no sparks or hot embers can touch the wood. You will want this to extend in about a 3 or 4 foot radius underneath and around the fire pit.

Do not burn any trash, leaves, paper cardboard or plywood. You will also want to avoid using any softwood that can pop and cause any flying sparks or debris. You will also want to make sure that you have a screen for your fire pit. They help catch any embers and ashes when the wind blows. This will keep you and your guests safe.

It is also important to remember that a fire pit is meant to be used outdoors. Under no circumstance should you use it under a roof or in any closed in areas.

Here are a few additional precautions you should take to help keep your evenings safe and enjoyable:

-Do not place any combustible materials on or near the outdoor fireplace
-Make sure to clean out any debris from your fire pit prior to lighting
-All low-hanging branches, dry grass, wood furniture, flammable gases and paper should be kept at a safe distance
-Do not operate your fire pit unless it is on a level surface
-NEVER burn wood in a gas, propane, or electric fire pit
-Do not disconnect fuel supply while fire pit is in use
-Do not leave a fire unattended

It is very important that you contact your local county or city municipality regarding codes and regulations for outdoor fires and fire pits in your area. Each area will have different regulations. Specific locations are not allowed to have any outdoor fire without a permit.

For more information on fire pits, please visit WoodlandDirect.com

By Stephanie Hobbs
Published: 4/3/2009
 
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