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Summer Outdoor Entertaining Safety: Fire Prevention Tips

Summer is the season for building lifelong memories with family and friends around a backyard fire pit. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, reminiscing about your favorite summer memories, or enjoying a relaxing summer evening by the fire, a fire pit is the ideal place to gather. However, it’s important to remember that even a small fire can become dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken.


Marshmallows over a campfire

Reduce your risk of an accidental fire, burns, and property damage by learning the basics of fire pit safety. Our goal at the Black Jack Fire Protection District is to help you continue to enjoy your outdoor living space safely, so your summer fun doesn’t have to end with a call to 911.


How Far Should A Fire Pit Be From A House?

A good rule of thumb is that a fire pit should generally be located a minimum of 10 to 20 feet away from your home, garage, fence, landscaping, or any other item or structure that is combustible. Before installing a fire pit in your backyard, we strongly recommend checking your local fire codes for the required distance as well as reviewing the manufacturer’s recommendations. 


When choosing a location for your fire pit, it’s important that the perfect spot is:


  • On a level, non-combustible surface such as stone, concrete, or gravel

  • Is free of overhanging tree branches

  • Has plenty of open space around the fire pit

  • Is away from dry grass, leaves, mulch, and other flammable materials

  • Allows guests to move around safely without tripping hazards


Avoid placing fire pits under covered patios, pergolas, low-hanging roofs, or in enclosed spaces where heat and smoke can accumulate. We understand it may look aesthetically pleasing, but that appeal quickly disappears when it goes up in flames. 




Common Fire Pit Mistakes To Avoid

Many backyard fires are the result of these simple mistakes. Reduce your risk by being aware of these preventable hazards, including:


  • Placing the fire pit too close to structures or landscaping

  • Burning excessive amounts of wood that create large flames

  • Using gasoline or other flammable liquids to start or revive a fire

  • Leaving the fire unattended

  • Burning during high winds or local burn bans

  • Allowing children or pets to get too close without supervision

  • Failing to fully extinguish the fire before leaving the area


Being mindful of the risk before lighting your fire can help prevent serious accidents from occurring later in the evening.


Outdoor fireplace

Is it safe to leave a fire pit burning?

No, a fire pit should never be left unattended, even for a few minutes. It doesn’t take much for a spark to carry over and ignite the fabric of a lawn chair, dry grass, landscaping, decks, etc. An unattended fire is a serious danger not only to you and your guests, but your entire neighborhood. 


If you are finished for the evening, make sure you put out the fire completely before leaving the backyard. 


What should you never burn in a fire pit?

We strongly advise against burning any of the following items in your fire pit:


  • Trash or household garbage

  • Cardboard or paper with colored inks

  • Pressure-treated or painted wood

  • Plastic or foam products

  • Rubber materials

  • Construction debris

  • Leaves and yard waste

  • Accelerants such as gasoline, lighter fluid, or diesel fuel


These materials can release toxic chemicals, create excessive smoke, or produce dangerous sparks that increase the risk of fire.


Essential Fire Pit Maintenance And Safety Measures

A well-maintained fire pit is a safer fire pit. Before each fire, homeowners should inspect their fire pit for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive ash buildup.


Good fire pit maintenance practices include:


  • Removing old ashes after they have completely cooled

  • Cleaning debris from around the fire pit

  • Checking metal fire pits for rust or cracks

  • Inspecting gas fire pits for leaks or damaged connections

  • Using a spark screen when appropriate

  • Keeping a fire extinguisher, bucket of sand, or a garden hose nearby


Performing routine maintenance helps keep your fire pit operating safely, giving you the perfect place to gather on starry summer nights.


How To Extinguish A Fire Pit Safely

To ensure that your fire is really out before you head in for the night, follow these steps:

  1. Stop adding wood well before you're ready to end the evening.

  2. Allow the firewood to burn down to glowing embers.

  3. Slowly pour water over the embers until all hissing stops.

  4. Stir the ashes with a shovel or a poker.

  5. Add additional water if any heat or steam remains.

  6. Feel for remaining heat from a safe distance before leaving the area.


For gas fire pits, turn off the gas supply according to the manufacturer's instructions and allow the unit to cool completely before covering it.

Campfire with chairs

Never assume a fire is out because the flames have disappeared. Hidden embers can remain hot for hours and can reignite if they receive enough oxygen.


What To Keep Away From A Fire Pit

Establishing and maintaining a safety zone around your fire pit can significantly reduce your risk of an accidental ignition. Before your next fireside gathering, we recommend keeping these items well away from the fire:


  • Patio furniture cushions

  • Umbrellas and canopies

  • Firewood stacks

  • Propane tanks

  • Lawn equipment

  • Decorations

  • Outdoor rugs

  • Children's toys

  • Dry leaves and mulch

  • Overhanging tree branches


Keep Your Summer Fun Safe With Our Fire Pit Safety Checklist

Before lighting your next backyard fire, make sure you’re doing so safely by using this quick safety checklist:


  • Position the fire pit at least 10–20 feet from structures.

  • Check local weather conditions and burn restrictions.

  • Clear away leaves, grass, and other combustible materials.

  • Keep a hose, bucket of water, sand, or fire extinguisher nearby.

  • Burn only clean, seasoned firewood.

  • Supervise children and pets at all times.

  • Never leave the fire unattended.

  • Fully extinguish the fire before going inside.

  • Inspect and clean your fire pit regularly.


Build Summer Memories Safely With Black Jack Fire Protection District

A backyard fire pit can be the centerpiece of countless unforgettable summer evenings. The Black Jack Fire Protection District is committed to helping our community stay informed about fire prevention and emergency preparedness. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening around the fire pit or hosting a neighborhood gathering, taking a few extra precautions can make all the difference.


Black Jack Fire Protection District firefighters

Have questions about fire safety or community fire prevention resources? Contact the Black Jack Fire Protection District to learn more about protecting your home and family throughout the summer season.


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