A Step-by-Step Guide to Safely Lighting Your Outdoor Fire Pit
Nothing is better than gathering around an outdoor fire pit with friends and family for a cozy evening of s’mores and storytelling. If you’re new to fire pits, it can be a bit intimidating when it comes time to light the fire. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be complicated. In this post, we’ll take you step-by-step through safely and easily lighting your fire pit. We’ll also provide tips to keep it safely burning for the duration of your gathering without any incidents.
Whether you’re using a wood-burning or a gas-burning fire pit, we’ll show you how to light an outdoor fire pit. We’ll also go over how to choose the right fuel, the tools to use, and the proper maintenance techniques. With these tips, you can ensure that your fire pit is a safe and enjoyable addition to your outdoor experience.
Choosing a Fire Pit
Before you start lighting your outdoor fire pit, you should ensure that you are using the right type of fire pit for your needs. Are you looking for something portable or permanent? Do you need an insert or an all-in-one unit? By considering the size of your property, any local codes and regulations, and your preferences, you can select a fire pit that suits your needs.
Gathering Firewood
Once you have chosen a fire pit, the next step is to gather firewood. Depending on where you live, there may be local guidelines about what types of wood are acceptable for burning in outdoor fire pits. Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and maple are preferred because of their ability to burn for a long time without producing a lot of smoke. Instead of freshly cut wood, try to select dry logs. Use only small logs and kindling as they will light more quickly than large logs.
Starting the Fire
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, it is time to start the fire. Begin by setting up your tinder in the center of the fire pit. Add some kindling around the edges of your tinder to create air pockets which will help ignite your wood faster. Be sure that all pieces are fairly small, as this will create a quick and even burn. Light your tinder with either matches or a fire starter and be ready to add more kindling until it catches properly.
Maintaining the Fire
Once you have achieved an active flame in your outdoor fire pit, it is important to maintain it properly. Never leave children or pets unattended near an open flame, and never leave the area when there is still wood inside the fire pit that has not yet burnt through. Make sure to keep some extra fuel nearby in case you need to add more. This spare fuel will also ensure that you have enough fuel to restart your fire if it accidentally burns out.
Extinguishing the Fire
When it’s time to extinguish your outdoor fire pit, do so slowly and calmly before everyone leaves the area. This process will prevent accidents from occurring while ensuring the safety of everyone involved. Start by gradually reducing the fuel added into the pit until all of the remaining logs are completely consumed. Once complete combustion has been achieved, spread out any remaining embers with a metal poker, and you are free to leave your fire pit.
Conclusion
A properly lit and maintained outdoor fire pit can bring joy, comfort, and relaxation. Keep your gathering stress-free by following the steps and tips outlined in this guide. By putting safety first when lighting and maintaining your outdoor fire pit, you’ll be able to enjoy s’mores, storytelling, and laughs worry-free!