8 Backyard Fire Pit Safety Tips You Can’t Afford to Ignore
There’s nothing like the crackling flame of an outdoor fire that sets the vibe of a cool and cozy evening in your own backyard. Outdoor fire pits provide warmth on chilly nights, flames for perfectly roasted marshmallows, and, in some cases, heat for grilling your favorite foods. Still, backyard fire pits need to be handled with caution. Because open flames in outdoor areas can pose significant risks, it’s important to take safety precautions. Read on to learn more about fire pits and our top eight tips for backyard firepit safety.
Types of Backyard Fire Pits
There are several types of backyard fire pits. Whether it’s small and portable or big and permanent, fire pits add a warm and inviting ambiance to your outdoor space. The four most popular types of fire pits include:
Fire Bowls
These rounded fire pits are portable and can be placed on the ground or sit slightly above ground, supported by a pedestal.
Fire Tables
Elevated and square-, circle-, or rectangle-shaped, fire tables include a centered fire pit surrounded by a ledge.
Built-in Fire Pits
Permanent structures, built-in fire pits are usually constructed of stone or rock and sit on flame-resistant hardscape.
Chimineas
These outdoor chimneys are vertical and made of clay or metal. Their flues allow smoke to rise upward rather than towards people.
The Dangers of Backyard Fire Pits
The number one hazard of outdoor fire pits is the risk of a fire. It’s estimated that approximately one-quarter of annual fires occur at homes, including single-family homes and multifamily properties. However, these fires are responsible for three-quarters of civilian fire deaths and injuries. Other dangers include:
- Property damage. Flames can travel and cause property damage to outdoor structures.
- Smoke inhalation. Particles can get into your nose and eyes, causing burning, a runny nose, illness, or an asthma flare-up.
- Neighbor complaints. If your fire pit interferes with a neighbor’s ability to enjoy their own property or is in violation of local rules, complaints may be directed to local law enforcement.
Are Backyard Fire Pits Legal?
Fire pits are legal in some locations. However, even if fire pits are allowed in your area, their use may be subject to restrictions. For example, fire pits may be banned from balconies or within a certain distance of homes and other structures. Portable fireplaces or other mobile fire devices might be restricted in some neighborhoods or community areas to reduce the chance of materials catching fire.
Check in with your local government to confirm the legality of fire pits in your area. And if you live in a community association, such as an HOA or condo community, review your governing documents to see whether outdoor fire pits are allowed.
RELATED: “Simple Holiday Fire Safety Tips for Busy Families”
Where to Place a Backyard Fire Pit
Backyard fire pits should always be placed outdoors in a clear space that’s far from the home and other structures and free of foliage. Local regulations, condo and homeowners’ association policies, and fire codes usually prohibit open flames near open-family dwellings. Check your local laws to confirm the proper placement of your outdoor fire pit.
8 Outdoor Firepit Safety Tips
By following just a few tips, you can enjoy your outdoor fire pit comfortably and safely. Be sure to take these precautions:
- Only use fire pits outside. Make sure portable fire pits are placed a safe distance (at least 10 feet) from any part of nearby homes.
- Keep a safe zone around your fire pit. Apply three feet of space between the fire pit and people and pets.
- Keep flames open. Enclosed gas fires can build up and cause an explosion if overlooked.
- Always keep an eye on the fire. Never leave a blazing firepit unattended.
- Properly turn down the fire. After use, properly put out wood and charcoal fires and turn off gas fires.
- Dispose of coals properly. Once cooled, dispose of ash in a metal can.
- Store a fire extinguisher. Know where it’s stored in case of an emergency.
- Follow local laws and ordinances. Follow no-burn rules and any restrictions from your community association or local government.
Review Your Insurance Policies for Fire Coverage
It’s always best to review your insurance policy for fire coverage before starting your first fire of the season. Every insurance policy is different, so make sure you understand what is covered and what is not. If your plan doesn't cover fire damage and you’d like to invest in a backyard fire pit, then talk to your insurance agent about additional coverage.
Indoor Wood-Burning Fireplace Tips
As with indoor fireplaces, many outdoor fire pits are wood-burning. To use outdoor fire pits safely, we must use them only outside, maintain a safe zone around them, and never leave them unattended while burning. But do those same rules apply to indoor fireplaces, too? To understand how to stay safe with a wood-burning fire inside, check out “5 Wood Fireplace Tips You Can’t Ignore.”
FAQs About Backyard Firepit Safety
Is it okay to have a fire pit in my backyard?
It’s generally okay to have a fire pit in your backyard. However, local laws, city ordinances, and homeowners’ association rules may prohibit the use of fire pits.
What is the safest way to put out a backyard fire pit?
The safest way to put out a wood-burning backyard fire pit is to drown it out. Pour water evenly and slowly to cool the embers and drown out the flame.
What are the laws about fire pits in your backyard?
Some local laws or HOA rules may prohibit you from placing a fire pit too close to a home or structure or using your fire pit during no-burn timeframes. Always check before using a firepit.
What’s the safest fire pit for a backyard?
Propane fire pits are considered to be some of the safest fire pits to use because you can control the flame and easily switch it off when you’re finished using it.