How to Safely Enjoy a Fire Pit without Causing a Fire Damage Disaster

10/8/2021 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Palo Alto shares ten safety rules to help homeowners enjoy time around the fire pit this fall and winter.

SERVPRO of Palo Alto provides fire damage restoration services to homeowners and businesses in Palo alto that have suffered a fire damage disaster. A fire damage disaster involves smoke damage and water damage. In many cases, the homeowner is not able to safely remain in the damaged structure. Cleanup, restoration, and repair are necessary for the family to return and resume life as normal. One of the joys of home life is relaxing and entertaining family and friends around the backyard fire pit. SERVPRO of Palo Alto offers these top ten fire pit safety rules to ensure the safest and best experience.

One of the most delightful pleasures of life is lounging by the fire pit, soaking up the soothing, relaxing warmth on a cool, crisp evening. Any activities that involve fire also require taking safety precautions to prevent the flames from getting out of control and causing fire damage to the patio, deck, and home.

Rule #1: Do not start a fire without having the tools to put it out.

Gather the tools to extinguish a fire before ever striking the first match. Have at close hand a fire extinguisher, a bucket of sand or water, and a water hose with a spray nozzle to prevent wasting water. A fire blanket is a worthy investment if the fire pit is a regular event.

Rule #2: Observe the wind and weather conditions.

Before igniting the fire pit, make sure the weather conditions will provide a safe burning experience. Wind speed should be low or calm, and the wind should be blowing away from the home. The homeowner will want to prevent sparks from blowing onto the roof or damaging the siding.

Rule #3: Fuel the fire with hardwood debris or seasoned hardwood purchased from a supplier.

Seasoned hardwoods burn evenly while producing fewer sparks and less smoke. Softwoods such as pine can be used for kindling and firewood. The logs produce active sparks and much smoke, making the fire pit experience less enjoyable. Construction materials such as plywood, MDF, and pressure-treated lumber give off toxic fumes when burned, creating an unhealthy environment. Food grilled over these toxic flames is unhealthy.

Rule #4: Beware of overhead fire dangers.

Avoid building a fire under an overhang, tarp, vegetation, or power lines. Keep yard waste and other flammables away from the fire pit.

Rule #5: Stay a safe distance away from the flames.

Clothing, hair, and chairs can catch fire if they come too close to the flames. Natural fibers are less flammable than many artificial materials. When turning food or tending s’mores, the “safe” position for sleeves and hair is rolled up and tied back, respectively.

Rule #6: Never leave a fire unattended.

A fire is never totally safe until all the flames have been extinguished and the coals and ash are cool. The seconds needed to make a dash for that favorite beverage or to take a bathroom break are just enough for a fire to flame up and cause fire damage.

Rule #7: Drink responsibly.

Certain forms of spirits are highly flammable. Too much alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, which may result in injury or the inability to effectively extinguish a fire that gets out of hand.

Rule #8: Comply with no-burn alerts to promote personal safety and public health.

Emissions and weather conditions may compel a municipality to issue a fire advisory prohibiting any burning. Failure to comply can result in a greater fire risk, an elevated public health risk, and stiff fines.

Rule #9: Store firewood in a safe place.

Keep firewood away from the fire pit. Sparks can easily ignite firewood that has been stockpiled too close to the fire pit.

Rule #10: Be prepared by pre-qualifying a fire damage restoration company.

When these fire pit safety rules are followed, the risk of fire damage is low. In case of a fire damage disaster, the homeowner who has proactively pre-qualified a fire damage restoration company will need only to make one call. A reputable and responsive property damage restoration company will respond within an hour, 24/7, 365 days a year. No time is wasted frantically searching for companies, reading reviews, and talking to customer service representatives over and over. One call.  One company. One great solution. Pre-qualify SERVPRO of Palo Alto for any property damage disaster of any size or type and have peace of mind.

To learn more about Redwood City, CA, fire damage restoration and cleaning services in Palo Alto and the surrounding area, contact the office by phone at (650) 800-3448 or email office@SERVPROpaloalto.com