Having a fire pit in your backyard can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors. If you want to set up a solo fire pit just for yourself, there are some key things you’ll need to get started.
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Location
First, you’ll need to pick out the right location. When choosing where to put your solo fire pit, here are some things to consider:
- Pick a spot at least 10 feet away from your house, trees, fences or other structures. This will help prevent fires from accidentally spreading.
- Avoid areas with overhanging branches. You don’t want leaves or other debris to fall into the fire.
- Choose a level surface. This will help keep the fire pit stable and prevent it from tipping over.
- Consider wind patterns. You’ll want the smoke from the fire to blow away from your house.
- Check local regulations. Many areas have rules about fire pit placement and distances required from structures.
A good spot for a solo fire pit is often a patio, deck or other hardscaped area. This helps contain the fire safely. Just make sure to place it on an inflammable surface away from anything flammable.
Fire Pit or Fire Ring
The next thing you need is an actual fire pit or fire ring. There are several options to choose from:
- Prefabricated steel fire pits – These come in a range of sizes, shapes and finishes. They often have mesh screens or lids.
- DIY fire pit kits – Kits come with retaining wall blocks, pavers or metal rings to construct your own fire pit.
- Brick or stone fire pits – You can hire a mason to build a custom fire pit out of brick or natural stone.
- Portable fire pits – These are lightweight, foldable metal pits you can move around your patio.
For a solo experience, a portable 30-36 inch fire pit is often a good size. Make sure whatever style you choose has proper ventilation and airflow underneath to prevent smoke buildup.
Firewood
You’ll need a supply of firewood for fuel. Here are some firewood tips:
- Hardwoods like oak, hickory and birch make for the best burning firewood.
- Softwoods like pine or spruce are okay, but burn faster and throw more sparks.
- Well-seasoned and dry firewood burns cleaner and needs less kindling to start.
- Split logs catch fire quicker than whole logs.
- Store extra firewood in a dry area away from your fire pit when not in use.
For a solo fire, plan for about an armful or half wheelbarrow of split firewood per fire. You’ll also need some kindling, like small sticks and twigs, to help start the fire.
Fire Poker
A fire poker is another essential fire pit tool. Look for one at least 36 inches long. You’ll use it to:
- Move and arrange logs while the fire is burning.
- Poke the fire to stir up embers and allow more airflow.
- Move or break up any logs that aren’t fully burning.
The poker helps you control and tend the fire safely, without having to reach over the pit with your hands.
Fire Pit Screen
A mesh screen lid or spark screen is highly recommended for fire pits. This helps contain sparks and embers for safety. Some key benefits include:
- Prevents floating embers from escaping the pit area.
- Reduces the chance of wind-blown sparks landing elsewhere.
- Lets you enjoy the fire’s warmth while reducing flying ash.
- Helps block any sudden flare-ups.
Look for a heavy-duty, high-temperature screen specifically made for fire pits. It should fully cover the opening of your solo pit when placed over it.
Fire Pit Tools
A few other handy fire pit tools include:
- Fireplace shovel – For scooping up ashes and moving them safely.
- Log grabber tongs – Lets you adjust logs from a safe distance.
- Ash bucket – For clearing out ashes after the fire.
- Bellows – A blowing tool to help restart a low or smoldering fire.
These specialized fireplace tools allow you to maintain your solo fire pit properly over many uses.
Extinguishing Materials
You need to be able to fully extinguish the fire when you’re done or in case of emergency. Some options are:
- A bucket of water, sand or soil nearby.
- A fire extinguisher rated for Class A fires.
- A garden hose stretched close enough to reach the fire pit.
- A metal bucket for emergencies to smother the fire with sand/soil.
Make sure you never try to put out a fire pit fire with water alone – this can cause spreading and splattering. Always have backup extinguishing materials on hand.
Safety Gear
For added protection when enjoying your solo fire pit, have these safety items nearby:
- Heat-resistant gloves for handling hot tools.
- A first aid kid in case of minor burns or scrapes.
- A fire-resistant mat or stones around the pit to prevent accidents.
- Goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Make sure you tie back long hair and avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch sparks. Never leave a fire unattended even briefly.
Seating
Finally, gather up a few items for comfortable seating around your solo fire:
- An outdoor chair, stool or log section.
- A small portable table for holding drinks or snacks.
- Blankets, cushions or camping mats as desired.
- An outdoor rug or mat to define your cozy seating area.
Ideas like patio string lights or Tiki torches can also add extra ambiance to your private fire pit oasis.
Summary of Needed Supplies
To recap, here are the key things you’ll need for a fun and safe solo fire pit experience:
| Fire pit or ring |
| Firewood and kindling |
| Fire pit tools like a poker, shovel, etc. |
| Spark screen or mesh lid |
| Fire extinguishing materials |
| Safety items like gloves, first aid, etc. |
| Seating, blankets and decor as desired |
As long as you choose a safe location and prep the right gear, a backyard fire pit for one can be the perfect peaceful retreat right at home. Spend your solo evenings unwinding fireside with a good book or enjoying the sunset. A small fire pit just for you will quickly become your new favorite way to relax.
Conclusion
Having your own personal fire pit can be very rewarding. With the right safety gear, tools and setup, you can enjoy intimate fireside experiences at home to decompress and reflect. Just be sure to locate your solo fire pit safely away from structures, keep extinguishing materials close by and never leave a fire unattended. With a little preparation and common sense, your backyard can become a serene – and toasty – escape.