Now that summer’s finally here, it’s time to dust off the fire pit and get ready for some backyard fun. But before firing it up, make sure you’re taking the right safety precautions so you don’t cause any harm to your home or loved ones in the process. To help prepare you for some safe fire pit festivities this season, the trusted landscapers at Lawn Innovations in Dayton, OH, have shared three key safety tips.

3 Fire Pit Safety Tips

1. Positioning Matters

While fire pits can provide hours of fun and create a warm, inviting atmosphere, they can also pose a safety hazard if not properly set up. Regardless of whether you’re using a portable fire pit or installing a permanent one, one of the first and most critical points to focus on is where you’ll position it. At a minimum, ensure that the fire pit is at least 10 feet from your property or neighboring yard; the greater the distance, the better. Next, make sure it’s positioned on a non-flammable surface, such as patio blocks and concrete. Never place the fire pit on a wood deck, directly on the lawn, or in tall grasses, as this can cause the flying embers to catch fire as they burn.

2. Which Materials to Burn

Next, make sure you have the right materials to keep the fire going while not risking anyone’s safety in the process. If you have a wood burning fire pit, avoid burning soft woods such as pine or cedar, as these can pop and throw sparks. Instead, opt for dense woods such as oak or maple, or purchase some lava rocks, which can handle the heat without sparking. Regardless of whether your fire pit is wood burning, gas-, or propane-fueled, never put any garage or paper products in the flames, as these can spark and throw off embers or burning remnants and create a safety hazard.

3. Keep Guests at a Safe Distance

In addition to safely positioning the fire pit itself, you also want to ensure that guests are at a safe distance from the flames as well. Position the chairs in a way that’s conducive to people moving about without falling into the fire. Heavier chairs or built-in seating is preferable, as the weight will help prevent them from drawing too close to the open flame.

Looking for a landscaper who can get your deck or patio summer ready? Then look no further than Lawn Innovations in Dayton, OH. Since 2005, their landscape design experts have been providing both residential and commercial landscaping services for clients across the South Dayton area. From lawn mowing to patio installation and beautiful hardscape design, they have everything you need to turn your yard into a thing of beauty. To speak with a professional landscaper today, give them a call at (937) 626-0406 or visit their website for more information.