B & W Cares

Now that crisp, cool fall nights have arrived, what better way to appreciate them than by sitting around a cozy fire pit enjoying its warmth with friends and family. Below are some fire pit safety rules to keep everyone safe.

Wind Conditions

Before using your fire pit, be sure to check wind conditions. It is recommended not to start a fire with wind speeds that exceed 15 MPH. Winds can send sparks through the air hitting structures, vegetation or worse yet, someone sitting nearby.

It’s smart to advise your guests to sit upwind to keep from getting hit with a spark or inhaling smoke. If you have a portable fire pit, consider moving it to a safer place before lighting the fire.

Open Air

Always keep the fire pit clear of any building overhang or trees. Be sure there are no flammable materials or yard debris like leaves in the surrounding area, as sparks can ignite them instantly causing a fire. 

What to Burn and What Not to Burn

The best woods to burn are pinion wood, alder, cedar, oak, hickory, mesquite, pecan, untreated plywood and fruitwoods.

Never burn pressure-treated or chemically-preserved lumber as they can release chemicals that create toxic fumes that are dangerous to inhale. Never burn railroad ties, painted or stained wood or driftwood.

Don’t burn trash bags, garbage, rubber or plastics as some can release pollutants and toxins in the air. Cardboard and paper create flakes of smoldering ash that the wind can carry creating a fire hazard.

If the wood has been sitting outside, it could have poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac leaves, or even harder to spot, oils that are still on it. This is very dangerous to inhale into your lungs. Just the same as wood, yard clippings can trigger allergies for some people when inhaled. Don’t use fire accelerants as the fire can get out of hand really quickly.

How to Extinguish the Fire If It Gets Out of Control

Fire can be beautiful but it also can be unpredictable and destructive if not nurtured correctly. Keep a shovel close by. If the fire gets out of control, properly extinguish it by throwing dirt on it. Know where your garden hose is. A good idea is to consider buying a fire blanket. Train kids on “stop, drop, and roll” in the event a spark hits them. 

Keep Chairs at a Safe Distance

We don’t even think about a safe distance but when you’re laughing with guests and getting close to the heat to cook that s’more, you and your guests maybe a little too close. Hair and clothes can catch fire. Be sure sleeves are rolled up and hair is tied back. Use the screen if your pit has one and always have a close eye on children and pets.

 Fire pits are a beautiful addition to any backyard landscape. The folks at B&W Custom Concrete can design and install the fire pit of your dreams. Not only will you enjoy it for years to come, but it actually adds value to your home and creates a beautiful focal point. Get your free estimate today!