What’s better than a gooey marshmallow or slightly charred hot dog roasted over an open flame? For many, summer is full of outdoor time with friends and family, including gathering around the warmth and comfort of a cozy backyard fire. Yet as recent fire seasons have shown us, it’s all too easy for poor backyard fire safety behavior to lead to tragic and costly consequences.
While some of your best memories can happen around a portable fire pit, backyard chiminea or outdoor fire ring, following safe fire pit and outdoor fire product guidelines is essential to protect your property and your health.
Outdoor Fire Pit and Safety Guidelines
First, it’s a good idea to review your policy and see if your homeowners insurance covers your backyard fire setup. Then use these 13 backyard fire tips to stay safe.
1. Abide by Burn Bylaws
Backyard fire safety begins before you even light a match. Start by learning your local fire laws and following them. Keep in mind that some communities require a fire permit for backyard fires in the wake of the recent increase in wildfires.
2. Safe Sites for Backyard Fires
Choose a safe site for your fire. Avoid lighting fires in the following areas:
- Too close to a building (check your bylaws for required distances)
- Under an overhanging roof
- Near containers of flammable fuels like gasoline or propane
- Close to wooden picnic tables, clotheslines, fencing or awnings
3. Clear Flammable Clutter
Inspect the area around your fire pit, fire table, chiminea or fire ring. According to the National Fire Protection Association, clear away leaves, fir needles and flammable materials within a five-foot radius surrounding your fire pit.
4. Wear Non-Flammable Clothes
If possible, choose non-flammable material or fire-resistant clothing, especially for children. Be mindful of wearing flowing shirts or skirts that could catch fire when you’re tending the flames.
