Be Careful When You Play With Fire, Even in the Backyard

It’s that time of year here in southeastern Pennsylvania! The leaves are turning brilliant shades of yellows, reds, and oranges, days are getting shorter, and the evenings are getting colder. It’s the perfect time to sit around a fire pit with friends and family and enjoy the changing season – unless, of course, that fire blazes a little too much.

​While a fire pit can be an excellent addition to your home, all fires are potentially dangerous. According to NBC News, “…at least 5,300 injuries related to fire pits or outdoor heaters were treated at emergency rooms in the U.S. in 2017…” A quarter of those injuries were children under the age of five, and many were the result of abandoned coals that were still hot.

So, before you sit down with some marshmallows to roast, check out these tips we have gathered to help you keep that fire in the pit (and away from everything else).

Are you legal?

• Before building or buying a fire pit, check the regulations in your area to learn about restrictions.
• Your fire pit may be legal, but a fire might not always be. Monitor and follow community burn bans.
• Be respectful. Nothing can extinguish the good vibes of a friendly fire more quickly than police complaints from smoked-out neighbors.

What kind of pit do you want?

• You can buy a fire pit or build one. If you choose the latter, there are plenty of resources online to help you design it, including this one from HGTV. Don’t dig a hole just anywhere and throw some rocks down. Put some thought into it, and you’ll have a better — and safer — spot to enjoy. If you want convenience, a propane model might be right for you. They produce less smoke and have an adjustable flame.

Ready to build your fire?

Actually, you probably aren’t ready yet.

• First, ensure the area under and around the fire pit is clear of flammable materials. Keep the pit itself at least 10 feet from any structures.
• Before you start the fire, have a fire extinguisher or a garden hose handy.

Okay, now are you ready to build your fire?

• Choose hard, seasoned woods. Sparks from softer woods like cedar can increase the danger of igniting something nearby.
• Don’t use liquid fuels, even lighter fluid, to get your fire going. And don’t burn paper, cardboard, leaves, garbage, etc.
• If you have a metal fire pit, don’t overload it and always use the included safety screen.

Is the fire out?

• When you’re done, spread out the ashes and let them cool off for a bit. Then gently pour water or sand over them. Stick around for a little while to watch for flare-ups.

We want you to have plenty of pleasant, warm nights — without getting burned. Here’s to making memories around the fire!

Protect Your Family

Berkshire Insurance Services offers affordable insurance, including auto, homeowners, and more. We can help you determine the right insurance to protect you, your family, and your property. Plus, as independent agents, we will compare the cost of that insurance with several companies to ensure that you get the lowest price possible. Give us a call at (610) 376-7300 or find us online.