October is here and there’s no better way to pass a cool fall night than by the fire! While a fire pit creates a warm and cozy atmosphere, it also brings danger if not handled properly. Before you head outside on a cool fall night to light a fire, be sure to read these safety tips to keep your family, friends, and property safe.
1. Position Your Fire Pit at Least 10 Feet Away from Your Home
Make sure you position your fire pit in a location that is at least 10 feet away from your home or anything else that can burn. Keep your distance from other outdoor structures like your garage and fencing, as well as plants, bushes, and trees. Don’t forget to look up and clear any overhanging branches.
2. Surround Your Fire Pit with the Right Material
Your fire pit should be located on flat ground. It is important to remove vegetation that could catch fire from the area like grass, plants, debris, leaves, and twigs. Instead, the area surrounding the fire should consist of material that is non-combustible like stone, brick, concrete, or sand.
3. Keep Kids Safe Around the Fire
Are there going to be children around your fire pit? It is imperative that adults monitor them closely to keep them away from the fire. It’s recommended to keep children and pets at least 3 feet away. One slip or fall could turn into a medical emergency. Additionally, store matches, lighters, and other dangerous objects out of their reach.
4. Check for Windy Conditions
Check your weather forecast before planning to light a fire. It isn’t safe to have a fire in high-wind conditions because wind can carry sparks, causing a fire where you don’t want one!
5. Provide Additional Outdoor Lighting
You should have another outdoor light source available besides your fire. Your family and guests need to be able to see around them to avoid accidents, especially trips and falls near the fire.
6. Keep the Right Equipment on Hand
In order to enjoy your fire pit safely, these items will really help:
- Metal Spark Screen – place this over a wood burning fire to keep sparks from floating out
- Tools – any tools being used for wood manipulation should have long handles and be insulated to protect against burns
- Safety Equipment – keep a first aid kit, water bucket and/or hose, and fire extinguisher nearby in the case of a medical emergency or fire
7. Never Leave Your Fire Pit Unattended
Leaving your fire pit unattended can cause a host of problems. Sparks and embers can ignite fires on your property. Pets or children could fall into the pit and suffer from burns. It’s just not worth the risk to leave it.
Keeping Your Property Safe with Ianniello Agency
We hope these tips ensure you and your loved ones enjoy a safe fire pit experience this fall. Do you know whether your homeowner’s insurance policy covers you when fires occur? If you’re not sure, please give us a call to review your policy, so we make sure it is meeting your unique needs. Contact us today at our Coshocton or Canton, Ohio offices!
