Fire Pit Safety for your Missouri Home

1/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fire pit safety with family and friends

Outdoor fire pits are a fun pastime when the weather is cool.  It’s a great place to create lasting memories with family and friends. Make sure your fire pit time is the good type of memorable by following these safety tips.

• Check the weather.  If winds greater than 15 MPH are in the forecast, do not ignite the fire pit at your gathering.

• With weather permitting, make a fire pit and clear all brush from the area.  No structures within 25 feet of the fire pit should be present.

• The safest way to start a fire is with small kindling.  If you must use charcoal lighter fluid, make sure to seal the container and keep it far away from the fire.  Never use lighter fluid once the fire has started.

• The size of a recreational fire should be no more than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high.

• Keep a bucket of water and garden hose nearby.

• Never use an accelerant such as gasoline, diesel fuel, or kerosene.

• Do not spray aerosols or toss canisters or fireworks into the fire.

• Keep a safe distance from the fire, and do not mess around the flame.

• Avoid consuming alcohol near the fire pit or placing empty beverages in the pit when it is lit.

• Make sure to put the fire out completely.  Stir the ashes and douse it thoroughly with water.

Most cities and townships do not allow open burning of garbage, automobile tires, papers, trash, leaves, foliage, clippings, brush, and trees and grass clippings.  Outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are permitted only when firewood is used for recreational purposes in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

In the event that you sustain damage from a fire pit mishap, please don’t hesitate to call SERVPRO of Chillicothe/Cameron/Richmond  for help at 660-240-5105.