Outdoor fires can be a great way to relax and entertain, but even a small flame can get out of control fast. Every year, homeowners face costly repairs — and sometimes complete property loss — due to outdoor fire accidents that could have been prevented, which lead to complete fire restoration. These outdoor fire safety tips can help you lower the risk of accidents, keep your property safe, and hopefully steer clear of costly fire damage repairs.
In this guide, we’ll discuss outdoor fire safety tips every homeowner should remember when enjoying their fire pit, grill, or any open flame on their property.
Backyard Fire Safety For Homeowners
Homeowners often focus on indoor fire hazards, but outdoor areas, wood-burning fires can pose just as much risk, especially when fire pits, grills, and yard debris burns are part of everyday life. Practicing good fire safety outdoors is as important as having smoke alarms and fire extinguishers inside. Many common fire hazards can be avoided with the proper habits and precautions. Below are key outdoor fire safety tips every homeowner should keep in mind.
1. Know Local Fire Laws and Bans for Safe Outdoor Burning
Before you even think about lighting a fire, check your local rules. Cities, like Denver, often have burn bans — especially during dry spells or windy weather — and those restrictions can change quickly. Some areas also have rules about what kind of fire pit you can use and how far it needs to be from structures or fences. It’s not just about safety — it’s about avoiding fines or being held responsible for unintentional damage.
Most homeowners don’t intend to start an out-of-control fire or to break any laws or fire ordinances. But ignorance isn’t an excuse. A quick call to your town office or fire department can save you a lot of trouble and potentially prevent your backyard fire from becoming a major wildfire.
2. Choose a Safe Location for Your Fire Pit or Grill
Where you put your fire pit or grill should be a strategic decision, factoring in proximity to trees, wind patterns, or any other area with the potential to contribute to an unintended fire. Your pit or grill should be 10 to 15 feet away from your house, garage, fence, or shed, and well away from trees, dry brush, or anything flammable.
Never use a fire pit under a deck or overhang; avoid sloped areas where fire could spread. Keep the surface level sturdy — concrete, gravel, or dirt are best. If you’re grilling, ensure the unit is stable and the gas lines are intact and properly connected.
Many outdoor fires begin with flames too close to siding, mulch, or low branches. Fire needs space — and your safety does, too.
3. Clear the Area of Flammable Debris Before You Light
It can take one stray ember to start a major fire accidentally. Clear any dry leaves, twigs, or grass clippings before you light an outdoor fire. Also, take a look at nearby surfaces. That wooden deck? It’s probably not the best spot to store matches. That decorative bark mulch? It’s highly flammable. Create a clean, safe zone around your fire — consider it a buffer to protect your property.
Fire can travel across dry grass or mulch beds and ignite sheds, fences, and even homes. Don’t give the flames a path to follow.
4. Never Leave an Outdoor Fire Unattended
Never leave a fire unattended, no matter how small the flame or how quickly you think you’ll be. Things only take seconds to go wrong — especially if kids, pets, wind, or fuel are nearby.
Make it a rule that someone stays with the fire, even an outdoor fireplace, if it’s burning. That includes grills, fire pits, chimineas, and anything with an open flame. Designate one responsible adult to stay close and watch things until they’re fully extinguished.
Some of the worst fire damage started with, “I just ran inside for a minute…” Staying with your fire is the simplest way to keep safe.
5. Burn the Right Materials To Prevent Outdoor Fire Damage
Use only dry, seasoned wood for your fire pit. Don’t use green wood, as it will cause smoke and throw off hot ambers. Also, don’t burn household trash or lumber that’s been treated, such as pallet wood, painted wood, or plastic. These materials are often toxic, ignite quickly, and easily get out of control.
If you’re grilling, use charcoal or propane as directed, and don’t overload the grill. And please, never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire — it’s not just dangerous, it’s one of the most common reasons outdoor fires get out of control. Take your time, use the right materials, and always start with safety in mind.
6. Keep Emergency Tools Nearby Just in Case
Even the most careful fire can surprise you, so it’s smart to have backup. Keep a garden hose, a bucket of water, or a fire extinguisher nearby — something you can reach quickly if the flames jump or grow unexpectedly.
Ensure you know how to use a fire extinguisher (and check that it hasn’t expired). If you’re using a gas grill or fire feature, learn how to quickly shut off the fuel supply.
The few seconds it takes to grab a hose or extinguisher can make all the difference.
7. Fully Extinguish the Fire Before Walking Away
When you’re done, the fire isn’t truly “out” until everything is cold. Douse the fire with water, stir the ashes, and then douse it again. Repeat until everything is soaked and zero heat comes from the pit or grill. At this point, the fire can still cause smoke and fire damage if it’s not entirely extinguished.
Never leave smoldering embers behind, and don’t dump hot ashes into a trash can or yard waste bin. Store cooled or smoldering ashes in a metal container, away from your home or garage.
Fires can reignite hours later because someone thought the fire was out. Always double-check — your peace of mind is worth it.
Emergency Fire Restoration Services in Denver
If a fire ever grows beyond what you can handle, don’t try to fight it alone. Call 911 immediately. Get everyone — family, pets, guests — away from the area and wait for emergency responders.
Once the fire is out, you’ll likely need fire restoration services. Contact Advanced 24/7 Restoration. We respond any time, day or night, to help you secure your property and begin the restoration process so you can focus on returning to normal. Contact us online or call us directly at (720) 722-4777, and we’ll respond quickly.
Advanced 24/7 Restoration uses advanced technology to assess fire damage quickly and accurately — whether it’s a residential home or a commercial property impacted by a fire. Even a small outdoor fire can cause significant damage. We’re here to help when things don’t go as planned — and to guide you every step of the way.
Advanced 24/7 Restoration’s mission is to provide unparalleled care and support to our valued clients. Delivering the best solutions for your property restoration needs. Our vision is to be the top-rated damage restoration company in Denver, known for our exceptional services, professionalism, and dedication to customer satisfaction. Water damage, fire damage, flood damage, and more.
