A fire pit is a great addition to your outdoor space so you can stay warm all year round. You can add a fire pit to your deck as long as you follow the proper precautions. Here are some helpful tips for safely using a fire pit on a wooden deck.

Clear the Deck

The first tip for safely using a fire pit on your deck is to clear the deck. Before you light a fire, you will want to ensure that the surrounding area is free of any debris. You should sweep the deck to eliminate dead leaves, dirt, and other flammable materials. A fire can send burning embers flying in all directions, so you don’t want to have anything that could catch fire within several feet of your fire pit.

Keep the Pit Away From the House

You should also be sure to keep the fire pit away from the house. The further you place your fire pit from your home, the better. Fire pits give off a lot of heat, and the last thing you want is to catch anything on fire or have to pay for home repairs. As a general rule, keeping your fire pit at least 20 feet from your house is safest. If you have a very small deck, it may be better not to install a fire pit.

Utilize a Fire Pit Mat

Another essential safety tip for using a fire pit on a wooden deck is to utilize a fire pit mat. You never want to place your fire pit directly on the surface of your wood deck, as it can cause the wood to burn or singe. There are fire pit mats available designed specifically for use on wooden decks to protect their surfaces from catching fire or being damaged. You can also place bricks or stone pavers under your fire pit to act as a fireproof barrier.

Follow Safety Precautions

Of course, you always want to follow proper safety precautions. It also helps if you have taken steps to fireproof your deck. There are several significant risks and hazards associated with fire pits, so you want to be as cautious as possible when using them. You should always keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby in case you need to put the fire out quickly. It’s also best to avoid using lighter fluid. Instead, start your fire with logs, kindling, or tinder. You should always stay a safe distance from the fire and never leave a fire unattended.

Now that you have a few safety tips for using a fire pit on a wooden deck, you can utilize these strategies today. If you’re looking to elevate your outdoor space further, check out Mr. Spindle’s high-quality selection of deck posts to improve your deck.