Patio Fire Pit Safety

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you shouldn’t sit on your patio and enjoy the splendors of the great outdoors. Of course, if you’re going to sit outside in the dead of winter, you need a way to stay warm. One of the most practical ways to do this is with an outdoor fire pit. Fire pits are great for patio-warming, but if you’re not careful, they can be dangerous. One careless move, and your backyard, along with your house, and possibly your neighbor’s home can go up in smoke. The wonderful firefighters in Huntsville are busy enough this time of year. Don’t add putting out a careless fire to their list of things to do. Whether your fire pit is portable or built-in, use it safely with these tips.
 

• Clear all flammable materials away from your fire pit before using it. Keep leaves, twigs, trash cans, and other flammable materials at least five feet away to minimize the risk of flames from spreading.
• Surround the pit with dirt or rocks. This will help keep escaped flames and embers from reaching flammable objects. 
• It’s best not to use a fire pit on a windy day. When winds are high, there is an increased risk of flames spreading and getting out of control. However, if you must use your pit when it’s windy, check the direction of the wind, and move anything downwind away from the structure.
• Don’t use lighter fluid or gasoline to start the fire. Instead, use a commercial fire-starter kit, and follow the instructions on the package. You can purchase these kits at local home improvement stores.
• Keep a close eye on the fire pit once you light the fire.
• Use a wire mesh lid to cover the pit and help contain the flames and embers.
• Don’t throw trash and paper products in the fire.
• Keep children and pets a safe distance away from the fire and never leave them unattended when the pit is burning or hot.
• Don’t wear loose-fitting or flammable clothes near the fire pit.
• Douse hot ashes with water and then stir the ashes to make sure all of them are wet.
• Store ashes in a metal container.

 
Sometimes despite your best efforts, stuff happens. Keep a container of water nearby just in case.
 
If you live in Huntsville or surrounding areas, and want a patio you can be proud of, contact B.J. Stewart Concrete today!