Outdoor fire pit safety tips

Building a fire pit can be as simple as circling stones in your backyard or as complex as a professionally built unit on your patio. Whatever you choose, be sure to keep these fire pit safety tips in mind.

Outdoor fire pit safety tips

Preparing your outdoor fire pit [1]

• Make sure the ground or surface is even to reduce the risk of fire escaping beyond your fire pit
• To keep your fire from causing damage, locate the fire pit at least 10 feet from your home, fences and trees
• If you’re building a firepit, build your fire pit with dry, rough stones instead of smooth river stones that could contain moisture and explode when heated

Using your outdoor fire pit [1]

• Avoid using your fire pit on windy days, because flames or embers can spread to your home, yard and nearby trees
• Never use gasoline or kerosene to start your fire, because such fuels can cause a fire to get out of control quickly; instead, use dry wood as kindling, and ensure that it doesn’t extend beyond the edge of the pit
• Even if your fire pit is small, flames can spread quickly if left unattended, so be sure to monitor it at all times
• Make sure that guests maintain a proper distance and don’t exhibit risky behavior; keep close tabs on children and pets
• Keep a fire extinguisher, garden hose or bucket of water close to douse the fire in case it gets out of hand; if you can’t put it out quickly, call 911

Extinguishing your outdoor fire pit [1]

• Once you extinguish your fire with water, gently stir and spread the ashes to cool; leave them only when they’re cool to the touch

Types of outdoor fire pits [2]

Fire pit bowls

These metal bowls tend to be lightweight and fairly portable.

Chiminea

Chimineas come in a variety of visual designs and can be wood-, propane- or natural gas-powered.

Fire tables

This type of fire pit has the additional feature of a surface around the edge that items such as dishes and silverware can be placed on.

Tabletop fire pits and fire bowls

Just like the name suggests, these are designed to be used on a table and are powered by liquid propane or gel fuel.

Stacked stones

Stones or blocks can be used to create a fire pit size and shape that works for the space. 

Frequently asked questions about outdoor fire pit safety

Can you put a fire pit on a deck?

If the right safety measures are followed, some fire pits can be placed on a deck. First, check local codes and regulations for any limitations or guidelines. On the fire pit packaging, confirm that it’s suitable for use on a deck and for the decking materials. When the pit’s being set up, a heat shield and noncombustible barrier (such as tiles or pavers) should be placed between the deck and the fire pit. Allow plenty of space between the fire pit and deck railings, overhangs, house walls and furniture. [3]

How far should the fire pit be from your house?

Always check local regulations for specifics, but a common requirement is that there must be at least 10 feet between the fire pit and your house, and between the fire pit and neighbors’ yards. [4]

When is it safe to leave a fire pit?

When the ashes are completely cool, it’s typically safe to leave a fire pit. A tip is to pour a bucket of water onto the ashes and mix with a shovel, which will speed up cooling. It’s also a good idea to monitor and check the ashes to confirm that the fire is completely extinguished. [1]

Get home insurance for additional protection

These tips can help you have safe, fun times around your fire pit. If the unexpected does happen, home insurance can help you and your family when you need it most. Learn more about Nationwide’s homeowners insurance coverage options today.

Sources:

[1] “Fire Pit Safety Checklist: 9 Simple Rules For a Safe and Fun Evening,” lumberjax.com/fire-pit-safety (Accessed May 2025). 
[2] “Best Fire Pits for Your Backyard,” homedepot.com/c/ab/best-fire-pits-for-your-backyard/9ba683603be9fa5395fab903ed17e56 (Accessed May 2025). 
[3] “Can I Put A Fire Pit On A Wood Deck?”  trexprotect.com/blog/can-i-put-a-fire-pit-on-a-wood-deck (Accessed May 2025). 
[4] “Building Fire Pits in New York: Sizing and Hiring Considerations,” neavegroup.com/blog/masonry/who-builds-fire-pits-in-new-york (Accessed May 2025).