Fire Pits

The summer time backyard BBQ’s are something that all families look forward to. It is a great way to enjoy the warm weather as well as offer a fun social gathering. The outdoor fire pit has been contributing to this for years and its momentum is gaining. Many home owners are splashing out serious money for the latest a greatest fire pit technology.

The fire pit comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There gas fire pits as well as propane fire pits. All claim to be better than the other while some claim to be 100 percent safe. The fire pit is something to be enjoyed but to operate one safely requires some common sense and some fire know how. Unfortunately, the fire pit has been responsible for several homes being destroyed and some serious injuries.

A safety feature with many backyard fire pits is grating on the sides. This is an excellent feature as it helps to control the flames. The grating also helps to keep logs in place and prevents burning logs from falling out. Any of these items whether they are gas fire pits or table top fire pits should have grating attached. Better safe than sorry.

Many times it isn’t the fire pit that is the problem. Any fire pit can become a hazard of the fire is built in an irresponsible manner. One should refrain from using any type of accelerant when using a patio or outdoor fire pit. People tend to put way too much on the logs and the flames soon get out of control. It takes time but build the fire slowly with kindling and other small bits of wood first. It does matter the type of fire pit, the fire will burn longer if it is created gradually.

Another common mistake that people make when using the fire pit is overloading it with logs. This can be highly dangerous as the logs will shift and the fire burns. Many time logs will roll out while they are completely engulfed in flames setting fire to anything surrounding it. To get the most from the fire pit, again build the fire slowly.

Finally, when lighting the fire try to use starter logs. Paper is okay but it can be very smoky and can fly off. Starter logs burn much longer and with greater efficiency.

A fire pit is something that can provide hours of enjoyment but must be used responsibly. Despite the type of fire pit, common sense and some knowledge of fire safety are an excellent idea.