How To Put Out An Outdoor Fire Pit

Enjoying a cozy fire pit in your backyard on a chilly evening can be a delightful experience. However, it's crucial to prioritize safety when dealing with open flames. Knowing how to extinguish the fire properly is essential to prevent accidents or unintended consequences. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to put out an outdoor fire pit:

1. Starve the Fire of Oxygen

The most effective way to extinguish a fire is to cut off its oxygen supply. Use a metal fire pit lid or a large piece of heavy fabric (e.g., a tarp or blanket) to cover the fire pit completely. This will prevent air from reaching the flames, causing them to die out.

2. Drown the Fire with Water (Caution!)

Water is an effective fire extinguisher, but it should be used with caution around hot coals or embers. Never pour water directly onto the fire, as it can create steam and cause hot embers to splatter, posing a safety hazard. Instead, use a hose or bucket to slowly sprinkle water around the edges of the fire pit, gradually soaking the coals. Continue sprinkling until you're confident that the fire is extinguished.

3. Use Sand or Dirt

Sand or dirt can be used to smother a fire pit, particularly if water is not readily available. Shovel sand or dirt over the coals and embers, ensuring that it covers them completely. The weight of the material will help extinguish the flames and prevent them from reigniting.

4. Stir and Monitor

Once you've covered the fire pit, use a poker or long stick to stir the coals and embers. This helps distribute the extinguishing agent (e.g., water, sand, dirt) evenly and ensures that all burning materials are extinguished. Continue monitoring the fire pit for any signs of reignition or lingering heat. If necessary, repeat the extinguishing process until you're satisfied that the fire is completely out.

5. Check for Embers and Ensure Ashes are Cold

Even after you've extinguished the fire, embers or hot ashes may remain. Use a shovel or rake to remove any remaining burning materials and spread them out on a non-flammable surface to cool down. Always check the ashes thoroughly before discarding them to ensure they are completely cold and no longer pose a fire hazard.