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Choosing the Right Location
When deciding where to put your fire pit, be sure to follow local regulations and keep these safety tips in mind:
- Place it on a non-flammable surface like gravel, concrete, stone, or sand
- Keep at least 25 feet away from structures, trees, and other flammable items
- Avoid areas with low-hanging branches or leaves
- Don’t position it under a deck or wood patio
You’ll also want to check on any rules about smoke and air quality in your area. Avoid placing the fire pit too close to your neighbor’s house.
Using the Proper Materials
It’s important to burn clean, dry firewood rather than debris, treated lumber, or other hazardous materials. Softwoods like pine and cedar are good options. You’ll get better burns and less smoke with seasoned firewood that has been dried for 6-12 months.
Some other do’s and don’ts for fire pit fuel:
- DO use commercially sold firelogs and firestarters
- DON’T burn cardboard, giftwrap, magazines, or other paper trash
- DO use kindling and small logs to build the fire gradually
- DON’T use gasoline, kerosene, or other accelerants
Practicing Fire Safety
Keep a fire extinguisher, shovel, water bucket, and hose nearby in case of emergencies. Avoid burning on windy days and don’t leave the fire unattended. Watch children and pets around the pit at all times.
Let the fire burn down completely before leaving. Douse the embers fully with water, not dirt, to preventsmoldering. Always double check that the fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving home.
Enjoying S’mores and Other Treats
A fire pit is the perfect place to roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and cook other campfire foods. Have long skewers on hand so you can hold food over the flames safely. Be careful of loose clothing that could catch embers.
Try grilling kebabs, hot dogs, or vegetables in a grill basket over the fire. Just be sure to position the grill at least 12 inches above the flames. Fruit like bananas or apples baked in foil packets are another great option.
Staying Warm and Cozy
On chilly nights, a fire pit is great for staying warm outdoors a bit longer. Place chairs 5-6 feet from the flames to enjoy the heat without getting scorched. Have blankets ready to wrap up in as the night air gets cooler.
You can extend patio season into fall and winter with a fire pit as a comfort spot. Just be sure to dress warmly and avoid fabrics like fleece that could catch sparks.
Setting the Mood with Lighting
Strategically placed lighting around the fire pit area adds beauty and safety. Use solar path lights to illuminate walkways and steps. Hang strands of outdoor bulb lighting from trees or your patio cover.
Place lanterns on a side table with glass vases filled with fire-colored flowers. Candles also cast a lovely glow but be sure to keep them far from the actual flames.
Conclusion
With some basic safety practices and preparation, a fire pit can provide many evenings of enjoyment. Have fun cooking over an open fire, relaxing under the stars, and gathering with family and friends. Just be sure to always make fire safety the top priority. Let me know if you have any other questions!