Install the Fire Pit Away from the House
Whether you’re building a fire pit or you’ve purchased one, keep it at least 10 feet away from your home and other buildings. Do not place the fire pit beneath an awning or canopy, or under low-hanging tree branches. Outdoor furniture and patio umbrellas should be kept several feet away from the fire at all times.
Teach Children About Fire Pit Safety
Teach young children to stay at least 10 feet away from the edges of the fire pit. Show them the required distance for safety and help them remember how to determine the distance. If you’re building a fire, make sure another adult is present to keep an eye on the kids at all times.
Use Seasoned Wood
Well-seasoned hardwood is the best type to use in a wood-burning fire pit. It won’t be as smoky and doesn’t spark like other types of firewood, like pine and cedar.
Do not burn trash or scraps of paper or cardboard in your fire pit. Embers can float away and ignite fires elsewhere. Don’t burn lumber or other pressure-treated wood. These contain chemicals that produce dangerous fumes.
Fire Pit Safety: Keep an Extinguisher Nearby
Anytime you’re using flame, whether you’re building a fire in the fireplace, cooking burgers on the grill, or enjoying your fire pit, keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
Make sure you know how to use it and teach your family members how to operate the device. The nearest extinguisher should always be kept in the same, easy-to-access location so everyone knows where to find it quickly in case of an emergency.
Digs Doctor Home Inspections provides inspection services to Charlotte and the surrounding areas of North and South Carolina. Contact us to request an appointment.