With the cooler weather, many people are enjoying the outdoors by grilling and socializing in the backyard. A popular way to stay warm is by gathering around a crackling and glowing outdoor fire pit. The Coppell Fire Department is reminding citizens to be mindful of safety and to follow these guidelines while utilizing a fire pit:
Ensure the pit is on a flat fire-resistant surface, such as concrete, stone, gravel, brick, or slate.
Place the pit a minimum of 10-feet from houses, fences, structures, brush, overhanging branches, or neighbors' yards.
Check the wind direction before lighting a fire and be mindful of flying embers. Do not light a fire in windy conditions.
Never try to move a lit firepit or one that is still hot.
Do not use flammable fluids (gasoline, lighter fluid, etc.) to light or relight fires.
Avoid using soft woods like pine or cedar, because they can "pop" or throw sparks.
Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away from the fire.
Never leave a lit fire unattended. Ensure fire is completely extinguished before leaving.
Properly dispose of all ashes.
Use mesh screen with holes no larger than ¼" when burning logs.
