In lieu of the recent wildfires going on around Washington in California, it was brought to my attention to consider doing a post about fire protection around backyard trees. We’ve had people ask what a safe distance is to have a tree near a fire pit, but being that it’s been so dry, fire protection, in general, is important for all. It’s important to follow rules and regulations when it comes to the burn bands within the city or county, but if you’re planning on building a fire pit or even a bonfire on your property, it’s important to have good insight when it comes to keeping your tree safe. The last thing you want is for the entire property to go up in flames or cause damage to neighboring properties.
If you’re building a fire pit here’s what you should know:
Before you build you want to make plans for where your fire pit will be. Check with your local fire department to ensure the fire pits or even allowed on your property. Some counties have certain ordinances requiring a permit before you can construct a fire pit or have a campfire or bonfire.
If you’re building a fire pit, choose the location that’s far enough away from the nearest trees, roofline, or anything else you don’t want to go up in flames. It should be and an area of your property that you utilize often but not in an enclosed area.
Nearby trees can pose a major security concern when building a fire pit or campfire. Fire pit should be at least 10 to 20 feet away from any nearby trees or shrubs. You’ll also want to keep the same distance from buildings and roof lines.
Keep a fire extinguisher and a garden hose handy and within reach of your fire pit. Make sure everyone in the family or household understands how to use a fire extinguisher and how you’re planning on using the fire pit.
Other protection tips about fires and backyards:
- Keep fire small and manageable
- Avoid using fire pits or campfires on windy days.
- Do not use flammable liquids to start the fire
- Never leave a fire unattended
- Make sure the fire dies down in poor water over hot embers before going to bed.
If other people in your neighborhood are building fires, keep your area safe by having a hose or fire extinguisher on hand just in case.
Have trees that need to be trimmed away from the house or a firepit? Give us a call! We can help!