Backyard fire pits can be a lot of fun — but anytime you deal with fire, there is an element of risk. If you have not had a backyard fire pit in the past or have not been around fire much in the past, we are sure that you have questions. We want to help answer some of your questions at Fox River Fire Rings and to do that — we have created a quick list of the Do’s and Don’ts for Your Backyard Fire Pit.

What Are the Do’s and Don’ts of Fire Pit Safety?

What is the best way to start your fire? What materials should you burn in your fire? These are just a few questions that you may be asking if you have never owned a fire pit before and Fox River Fire Rings has the answers. We are here to take a better look at the do’s and don’ts of fire pit safety.

Do’s for Fire Pit Safety

1. Do Choose a Safe Location — The first thing you need to do when you purchase a backyard fire pit for your home is to choose a safe location in your yard. Your fire pit should be a safe distance from your home and other structures — a minimum of 10 feet — to prevent any secondary fires from igniting via sparks. Safe distances may be designated by the local fire code.
2. Do Use Dry and Seasoned Wood — Do you want a clean burning fire in your backyard? Dry and seasoned wood will prevent excess smoke and sparks that could cause secondary fires and it just creates a more pleasant occasion.
3. Do Keep Safety Equipment Nearby — Accidents do happen when you are around a fire and it is important to be prepared for anything. Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose, water source, fire pit lid, or extra soil close to your fire pit to extinguish the flames quickly if the fire gets out of control.
4. Do Always Keep an Eye on the Fire — A fire can get out of control quick, fast, and in a hurry if you are not careful. When you have a backyard fire, it is important that there is always someone there to keep an eye on the fire.
5. Do Clean Out and Dispose of Ashes — When you are done with the fire, it is important that you clean out and dispose of the ashes in a safe way when the ashes have cooled. This will help ensure that your fire pit lasts for years and you have clean-burning fires.

Don’ts for Fire Pit Safety

1. Don’t Use Flammable Liquids or Treated Wood — You may be tempted to use lighter fluid, gasoline, or other chemicals to start your fire. You may be tempted to burn old pallets, treated wood, or garbage. Don’t. Flammable liquids and treated wood emit chemicals when they are burned that can be harmful to you and anyone around you. 
2. Don’t Leave a Fire Unattended — A loose spark that lands on a nearby structure or a dry pile of leaves can ignite and cause a secondary fire if you aren’t careful. This makes it imperative to always keep an eye on your fire and never leave it unattended. 
3. Don’t Burn Your Fire by Trees or Structures — When you choose a place to put your backyard fire pit, you need to be aware of overhanging trees, dried leaves, or nearby structures. Don’t burn your fire pit close to anything that could catch fire if a spark lands on it and don’t use your fire pit on a wooden deck or flammable surface.
4. Don’t Leave a Fire Burning Overnight — It can take a long time (hours) for all of the embers to go out in a backyard fire pit. You may be tempted to let your fire burn down after you head to bed, but it is not safe. Use water or earth to put out the flames of your fire pit and cool embers before you go to bed.

READ MORE: Pros and Cons of a Wood Fire Pit

Do you love to spend fall nights by the fire with family and friends? We hope that this list of the Do’s and Don’ts for Backyard Fire Pits has answered your questions and will help you enjoy fun and safe backyard fires. Contact Fox River Fire Rings today to order a custom backyard fire pit!