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Safety Should Be Top Concern When Using Fire Pits
Wed 12 Aug 2009 - 07:28
Safety Should Be Top Concern When Using Fire Pits
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mary_Buckingham]Mary Buckingham
A well designed outdoor space isn't complete without a fire pit. However, fire pits can pose a hazard to those who ignore safety concerns. A responsible homeowner will think about safety when planning an outdoor area that includes one or more fire pits.
Here are some tips to remember when planning an outdoor space that includes a fire pit:
Plan to put your fire pit in an area that is away from trees, branches and bushes. It is also a good idea to keep it away from anything made from a flammable material or wood, such as cedar siding, wooden chairs or tables, and outdoor tents or awnings. Consider smoke and where it may blow.
Be sure the area that holds the fire pit, whether it is a concrete patio, pavers or grass, is level and solid. You don't want it to be unlevel, where it could tip over. Make sure that chairs and benches are placed well away from the fire pit. You don't want you or your guests to be in danger from nearby sparks or flames.
Children love to play near fires. Roasting marshmallows and hot dogs is a treasured family pastime. However, it is easy to forget that a fire pit can be dangerous to children. A child who trips and falls into the pit can be severely hurt. Be sure that all children are well supervised by adults and instruct them to keep a safe distance away from the flames. If toddlers and very young children are nearby, you should install a baby safety fence completely around the pit, or simply not use it in their presence.
Look for quality when making your purchase. Fire pits come in many sizes, prices and quality levels. A higher quality pit is usually safer, since it is made from a more durable material. Steel is available in different gauges. Ask a sales representative at your store which steel unit is of the highest quality. Although budget is a consideration, investing in a quality fire pit will ensure long lasting enjoyment.
Some fire pits are manufactured with safety features, including screens or guards to improve safety around open flame. Pits are usually made from cast aluminum, steel or iron. If your fire pit will be left outside all year round, you may want to look for a unit made from stainless steel. This will help prevent rust during the rainy season and withstand harsh winter conditions better than some other materials.
Copper fire pits have become popular. These fire pits are strikingly beautiful and can dress up any outdoor area. Although copper fire pits tend to tarnish, as all copper will, keep it clean so that it ages well. Copper cleaners are specially designed to suit this task, so be sure to buy some when you buy your unit.
Read the manufacturers instructions closely when operating your fire pit. Operate it according to instructions. No short cuts allowed. Fire pits are designed to create a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere and by following a few simple safety steps, you and your guests can enjoy your fire pit for many years to come.
Mary Buckingham is a freelance writer. She writes about [http://www.instylepatio.com/outdoor-fire-pits.html]Fire Pits.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Buckingham http://EzineArticles.com/?Safety-Should-Be-Top-Concern-When-Using-Fire-Pits&id=2739604
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