04/23/2026
Fire pit safety tips - Part two
In addition to yesterday's suggested guidelines , fire pits in particular have some special considerations. They are generally small and sometimes portable, which leads to possible additional hazards. To ensure personal safety and prevent the spread of fire when using fire pits, follow these additional tips:
Only use fire pits outdoors and at least 10 feet (3 meters) from anything that can burn.
Place the fire pit on even ground or a level surface that will not catch on fire, such as patio blocks, bricks, or concrete.
Remove any trip hazards from the area around the fire pit, like loose rocks or sticks.
Keep the area well-lit or use a flashlight when approaching or leaving the fire pit area.
Keep the fire pit away from siding, decks, deck railings, tents, grass or other vegetation, and out from under eaves, overhanging branches, or overhanging rooflines.
Use a fire pit screen to help contain sparks, embers, and ash.
In wood-burning pits, burn only clean, dry, seasoned hardwood.
Keep children and pets at least three feet (1 meter) away from the fire pit.
Arrange chairs a safe distance away from the fire pit; ask adults to stay a safe distance away from the fire pit and model safe behavior for children.
For a wood-burning pit, put the fire out completely and dispose of ashes, only after they have cooled, in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Place the container away from anything that can burn.
The risk of tripping and falling into the fire pit is sadly supported by real-world experience and data. The ease of creating a fire, and its small size, may lead people to think that there are fewer safety risks around a fire pit than a campfire. These tips can help people enjoy the ambience of a fire pit while keeping everyone safe.