Brush Up on Fire Pit Safety
From Spring right through to Fall, Southern New Englanders love a good fire pit. They create the perfect setting to create lasting memories. While fire pits can be enjoyable, they can also be dangerous. Ensure you get the most enjoyment from your fire pit by keeping your family and friends safe. Begin by selecting the right location for your fire pit. The ground needs to be level and the pit itself should be kept at least 10 – 20 feet away from plants or structures. It is also a good idea to check with your local city or town to be sure you maintain the distance required by law. Remember to never operate a fire pit under an overhang or in any enclosed space. Pay attention to overhanging trees, which can ignite easily. Also, consider surrounding your fire pit with crushed stone, brick, or sand. If your fire pit is wood-stoked, be sure to only burn wood that has been seasoned for at least six months. Avoid burning materials such as plywood or composite woods, as they can release toxic fumes. Softwoods, such as pine and birch, tend to spark and crackle more than seasoned hardwoods, such as oak or…