Building Fire
It is best to start slowly and keep the fire well controlled. Most experts recommend the use of natural materials, such as kindling or commercially available starting ammunition for firing, rather than lighter liquids or other chemical products. These natural materials usually give you more control as they begin a little slower. Running a fire too fast can easily let it get out of control before you know it. Most experts also agree that the fire will last longer if you start a little. For the safety of your and your family, start slowly - slowly!
Another consideration for fire fighting is laying wood and stoking. Again, for more control and a higher level of safety, be careful not to stack the wood / dust too high in the outer fire pit. Often, when a forest burns, it rises and falls. This can create a very dangerous situation very quickly - especially if the wood is piled high.
Positioning your outdoor fire pit
Another important factor in the proper use of your outdoor fire pit is that your fire pit must be kept at a safe distance from your home and any outdoor furniture or other flammable materials. Experts recommend placing it at least ten feet from your home and from three to five feet from furniture, plants, foliage, etc. For strikes, it only takes a few seconds. Also ensure that your fire pit is on a stable / level surface.
In addition, it is recommended to clean the brush and dead / dry vegetation about 15 to 20 feet around your fire pit and avoid placing your fire pit near low hanging trees where frightened sparks and heat can ignite dry leaves and branches. A spark screen is recommended. Keep a working fire extinguisher or garden hose next to the spray nozzle, so if sparks avoid fire, you can quickly choke them.
Never place a fire pit in a closed area; smoke from it can be harmful without proper ventilation.
Liquid propane (LP) and natural gas (NG)
LP and NG fires usually require less attention / aspiration and are more comfortable and easily lit. However, there are important precautions when using these types of products. Before each use of your LP or NG firing products, you should check all hoses, valves and attachments to make sure that there are no leaks or openings before introducing any kind of flame or spark. If your fire LP or NG product uses a light trigger to start a fire, be sure to check it periodically to make sure that it does not blow out and that flammable gases do not leak into your fire zone. Always know how and where to lock stock LP or NG in case of an emergency.
Personal protection
Last but not least, of course, don't forget to protect yourself! Never use hot pits or coals. Always allow the pit and other firing materials to cool completely before cleaning, and when burning fire, use poker or a log grabber to move and arrange the logs.
