Choose the right location. Ensure your firepit is at least 10 feet away from your house or other buildings so the fire doesn’t accidentally spread. 

Choose your firepit site carefully. Put your firepit on something that won’t catch fire, such as concrete or brick, not grass or wood. 

Avoid windy days. If it’s windy, it might be better to wait for another day to use your firepit because the wind can cause your fire to spread rapidly. 

Check local ordinances. Look into local laws to ensure an open fire is legal in your area and obtain any necessary permits. Be mindful of temporary restrictions on open fires due to dry weather and droughts. 

Get the right safety equipment. Keep something close by that can extinguish the fire quickly, like a fire extinguisher or a hose. Use a spark screen to contain airborne embers. 

Supervise the fire. Always have an adult watching the fire, never leaving it alone. Make sure kids and pets stay at a safe distance so they don’t get burned. 

Use proper fuel. Dry, seasoned firewood is the best because wet or green wood can cause a lot of smoke and sparks. Never use accelerants like gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire because the fumes can cause the sudden spread of fire. 

Properly extinguish the fire. When done, put the fire out completely with water or sand. Wait for the ashes to cool down before you throw them away and use a metal container.