Hot commodity: Fire pits heat up cool nights
Metro Creative
Outdoor fire pits are one of the most sought after design elements for this year, according to architects.
Outdoor fire pits come in an array of styles and sizes.
Outdoor fire pits are trending as a hot commodity for backyard gatherings and entertaining, but experts recommend proper use to ensure the safety of family and friends.
According to the American Society of Landscape Architects, fire pits are the top outdoor design element for 2016.
They also add ambiance year-round and can serve as a focal point that requires little maintenance.
Whether permanent or portable, HGTV states that fire pits come in a variety of shapes, sizes and prices and are also easy to install.
The most popular styles include bowl-shaped pits usually made from metals, such as cast iron, stainless steel and copper.
Also, metal fire pit bowls typically include a mesh cover to help contain embers and sparks and are typically fueled by wood, gas or propane.
As with any outdoor hearth, local fire officials say it’s important to follow necessary safety guidelines.
“Fire pits can be more (dangerous) than people realize,” said Lt. Scott Conn, shift commander at Uniontown Fire Department.
As the first step, Conn said people need to check with officials in their local municipality on burning regulations or bans.
Conn advised against using an outdoor fire pit or hearth if weather conditions are extremely dry and to never leave them unattended.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported outside fireplaces or fire pits caused nearly 3,700 grass and brush fires according to statistics from fire analysis and research division.
The latest data from NFPA shows the total number of outdoor patio heater or fire pit injuries nearly tripled from 1,330 in 2006 to 3,608 in 2012.
Also, an average of 8,800 house fires each year involved grills, hibachis or barbecues.
While nearly half of the people who grill do it year-round, NFPA said July is the peak month for grill fires followed by May, June and August.
Although most portable outdoor fire pits come with screens or covers, Conn suggests to keep a close eye on any embers that could fly out.
He said the same precautions apply to outdoor barbecues and grills.
As with any product fueled by fire, Conn recommends that parents educate their children on the dangers of keeping a safe distance.
It’s also a good idea said Conn to have a fire extinguisher or garden hose handy.
Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association provides the following tips for outdoor products such as fire pits:
n Always have a fire extinguisher on hand.
n Carefully read the manufacturer’s installation instructions and safety guidelines for your product.
n Keep all portable hearth products away from combustible material, including outdoor furniture, pool towels, side of house, shrubs, etc.
n Position your hearth product on a stable and fireproof surface such as concrete or brick. Do not put a hearth product on grass, wooden deck or in an enclosed porch.
n Never leave a burning product unattended, especially around children and pets, and make sure the fire is completely extinguished.
before leaving.