Fire Pit Safety

Fire pits create a nice focal point and atmosphere in the garden. They also provide some heat as the sun goes down. However, as with any fire, you should take some safety measures and precautions when using them.

Where to Place a Fire Pit

Unfortunately, fire pits are not suitable for all settings. Before setting up a fire pit in your garden, you should always make sure there are no hazards nearby.

When deciding where to put your fire pint, keep these things in mind:

• Place the pit away from anything flammable, such as trees, bushes and fences.
• Do not place a fire pit on wooden decking.
• Never use a pit on an apartment’s balcony.
• Only use fire pits in a well ventilated area - never indoors!
• Look up! Heat rises so make sure you check for anything flammable situated above your fire pit.
• Do not place your fire pit on dry grass as this is flammable.

Fire Safety Tips for Fire Pits

Once you have set up your fire pit, you should keep these fire safety tips in mind:

• Read the safety instructions carefully.
• Don't use lighter fluid or petrol to light the fire.
• Be careful immediately after using alcohol hand sanitiser. Your hands could be flammable until it evaporates, so don't go near any naked flames until then.
• Have a bucket of water or hose nearby.
• Be careful when moving around the fire pit. Avoid wearing loose fitting clothes and scarfs as they can catch fire if they come into contact with the flame.
• If your clothes do catch fire, STOP, DROP & ROLL. Running around will only fan the flames, instead you should smother the flames with a heavy non-flammable blanket or coat.
• Always supervise children and pets closely.
• Never leave the fire pit unattended.
• Allow the fire pit to cool overnight. The fuel could still be warm in the morning, so double check the ashes are completed cool before you dispose of them.
• Don’t place warm ashes in a bin.

Fire Prevention in Dublin

Making Dublin safe from fires and other emergencies is at the heart of Dublin Fire Brigade's work. Through fire safety programmes, education and advice, we aim to get communities involved in the prevention of fires.

If you would like a fire officer to talk to your school, business or community, get in touch below.