Fire pits can make for cozy fall and winter evenings, but you should be aware of the dangers.
In 2021, nearly 6,000 people went to the emergency room with injuries related to fire pits and outdoor heaters. The National Fire Protection Association says 10,000 home can be attributed to fire pits each year.
In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission just issued a recall for more than 89,000 fire pits fueled by liquid alcohol. These Colsen branded pits created flame jetting when the reservoir was being refilled.
Even if you are just burning wood in your fire pit, there are steps you should take to keep safe:
* Check the wind. In very windy conditions, sparks may blow into surrounding bushes, dry leaves, or structures. Watch the fire carefully and have a hose nearby. Check for a breeze to stay upwind of the smoke.
* Always position the pit in an open area. You don't want smoke or gas to fill an enclosed space like a garage or patio. Remember that gas fire pits emit carbon monoxide, so avoid enclosures.
* Check the stability of the pit. It should be situated firmly on a fire-resistant surface, like bricks or sand. Chairs should be at least three feet from a pit.
* Never burn construction wood or pallets, which are often treated with chemicals.
