Fire Pit Tips & Safety Precautions

Any outdoor gathering around an open fire could suddenly go wrong, especially if you don’t know fire pit tips and safety precautions. A fire pit does provide that beloved campfire setting for relaxing next to flickering flames. Just follow tricks and safety tips for fire pits that follow. If you’re still deciding on a fire pit, be sure and visit Dubuque Fireplace & Patio in Iowa for a great selection to choose from.

Where to Place a Fire Pit

There are several guidelines to go by when placing a fire pit in your backyard. Whether you’re installing an elaborate setting for a custom fire pit or placing a portable fire pit for enjoyment, consider the following:

• Leave at least 10 feet between the fire pit and your home, fencing, storage shed, or any other structure to avoid embers from being blown by
• There should be no nearby trees, overhanging branches, awnings, or other flammable coverings.

Know Your Fire Pit

For safety reasons, you should consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your fire pit. There, you will find out specifics, which may include things to consider such as how the fire should be started, how the firewood should be arranged, installation information, etc.

Fire Pit Dos and Don’ts

There should be a protective barrier under your fire pit so that heat transfer won’t damage the surface underneath or possibly cause a fire hazard. That even includes concrete and bricks because they can crack, spall, and become damaged over time by heat and moisture. A heat shield, pit pad, or some other type of non-combustible and heat-absorbing material is needed. Don’t put the fire pit directly on the lawn or on a deck, whether made of wood or composite material.

The following are more essential dos and don’ts of fire pit safety:

• Never leave a fire pit unattended. Never leave a fire pit burning overnight.
• It’s safest to have a lid with a screen to provide protection from stray sparks and hot embers that may pop out and cause injury.
• Don’t burn trash, paper, cardboard, plastic, or other items in your fire pit. Items can release toxins into the air, create floating ash, and cause hot flash fires.
• Be careful to minimize the drinking of alcohol around the fire.
• Make sure small children and pets don’t get too close to the fire pit.
• Keep a water hose or fire extinguisher close at hand, just in case the fire gets out of control.

Special Order your Fire Pit at Dubuque Fireplace & Patio

You can browse fire pits on the Dubuque Fireplace & Patio website. We install built-in gas fire pits and offer stylish patio and deck furniture. Visit our 6,000 square feet of wood and gas stoves, fireplaces, inserts, and hearth accessories. Besides these fire pit tips and safety precautions, we offer chimney services to help keep your family safe.

Call us at Dubuque Fireplace & Patio today at 563-582-5156 or schedule an appointment using our convenient online form.