Simple Steps to Ensure Your Fire Pit Does Not Become a Wildfire from the N.F.P.A. (National Fire Protection Association):
Wind-blown embers igniting dry vegetation and threatening homes sounds like a wildfire. Yet, this summer that source of embers may well be your own patio fire pit or backyard campfire.
Backyard recreational fires must be:
- Kept under three feet in diameter and two feet high.
- Confined to a permanent outdoor fire ring, a portable outdoor fireplace, or a commercially designed chiminea.
- Have a garden hose, fire extinguisher, or five-gallon bucket of water nearby.
The fire pit’s location is important – Fires are prohibited during times of high fire danger ratings and on “red flag” days that bring high winds to dry landscapes.
It is important to remember that embers blowing from a backyard fire pose the same threat to your home as if they are from a wildfire. Start with simple steps to reduce the ignition risk, like:
- Cleaning out gutters of seasonal debris.
- Clearing away leaves and needles in the 0-5 foot “immediate zone” around the house.
- Moving any flammable material away from wall exteriors, like mulch, flammable plants or firewood piles.
- Removing anything flammable stored underneath decks or porches.
Most of all, safely enjoy your patio fire pit or backyard campfire and keep blowing embers that come from any source from threatening your home this summer. Make sure to check in with your local fire authority to see if backyard fires are allowed and if burn bans are in place due to weather.
The author of this content cannot be liable for any use or misuse of the contents. This is a guideline and is meant for information only.
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