Friendly Fires: Tips to Safely Use a Fire Pit

Supervise fire pits when in use, especially with children and pets nearby.

Fire pits and chimineas have become very popular and are widely available for sale at garden and home stores. As you enjoy these products on a cool, spring or fall evening, it is important to know the guidelines and keep your family safe.

Check Local Codes

• Please check with your local municipality to determine if these devices are legal or whether a permit is required.
• Determine whether a cover is required for a fire pit.
• Observe any burning bans or Red Flag warnings in your area and comply with any ozone warnings that may be in place.

Where to Put a Fire Pit?

• Always use a chiminea or fire pit outdoors. They are not designed for indoor use. In addition to the fire hazard, combustion creates carbon monoxide that can cause death or injury.
• Place at least ten feet away from other materials that could catch fire, for example, tree branches, sheds and fences.
• Place securely on a flat surface that is non-combustible.
• Do not place directly on a wooden surface.

What Should Be Burned in a Fire Pit?

• Burn seasoned firewood. Do not burn trash, leaves, cardboard or plywood.
• Never use lighter fluid or other flammable liquids such as gasoline, diesel fuel or kerosene.

Ongoing Fire Pit Safety & Extinguishing

• Check the weather, avoid using in windy conditions.
• Be sure any lit fire is attended. Chimineas and fire pits get very hot.
• Prevent your kids from poking or playing with the fire or from throwing things into the fire.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose handy, just in case.
• Dispose of ash properly. Allow wood or coals to cool completely before disposal.

This loss control information is advisory only. The author assumes no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy service.