Things to consider before building a firepit in your backyard

A firepit can make your backyard a welcoming place for people to gather and allows you to take advantage of your outdoor living space well into the evening. Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about installing one on your property.

Where you’ll put it
Firepits should be kept at a minimum of ten feet away from anything flammable. Rethink your plans if your yard doesn’t allow you to provide this kind of clearance.

The fuel you’ll use
Most people think of wood when it comes to firepits, but there are other options available. You can choose to have it run on propane, natural gas or ethanol fuel.

What style you want
Firepits come in many different styles. You can select a traditional ring of stones, a rustic brick fireplace or a modern piece that doubles as a coffee table.

Before you purchase or build a firepit, be sure to check your municipal bylaws. Some cities have strict rules concerning backyard fires, and you don’t want to spend time and money building a firepit only to find out you’re not allowed to use it.

Backyard fire-safety tips
• Never build a fire outside of your firepit’s enclosure
• Clear the area of flammable materials before lighting a fire
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby
• Don’t put garbage or garden waste into the fire
• Never leave a fire unattended
• Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before going inside
• In the case of a wood-burning firepit, allow ashes to cool completely before safely discarding them