Is it OK to Leave a Fire Pit Burning Overnight?

Sitting at a campfire in your backyard is a great way to end the day. During these times, memories are made, and stress is released. But there are times when you might be tempted to leave the fire burning so you can head to bed. Leaving a fire burning in your fire pit unattended at any time, and especially at night, is extremely dangerous. If you wonder if it is acceptable to leave a campfire burning overnight, you might want to consider the following information before walking away from a lit fire.

Consequences of Unattended Backyard Fires

Fires Left Unattended Can Grow and Cause Massive Damage

Campfires are a fun way to spend time with friends or family. But leaving them unattended is not only unwise but very dangerous. A fire that is not attended to can quickly start to burn out of control. Within minutes, you could find your entire home engulfed in flames. All it takes is a minute for a fire to grow too large for you to handle. By the time the fire engines arrive, your home might be glowing red.

Your Neighbors May Find Themselves in Danger

A fire left unattended can also put your neighbors in great danger. Most fires at homes are lit in the backyard, and if one ember makes its way out of the fire pit, it can ignite your neighbor’s yard or house. Caution is of the utmost importance, as people have been burned and lost their lives because a fire was left burning overnight on rare occasions.

Community and City Rules

Most cities and private communities have laws that forbid leaving a fire burning unattended. This means that you cannot leave a fire smoldering or burning without being physically present. In some regions, backyard fires are not permitted at all. Failure to comply can lead to criminal charges being levied on you or even legal action.

Keeping Your Campfire Under Control

Educate Yourself on Local Law Regarding Backyard Campfires

You should speak with code enforcement about what is acceptable and what is not permitted with backyard fires. You may find that fires are allowed under certain conditions. Some communities require a water source for any fire that escapes its confinement space.

Watch Out for Bad Weather

You will want to make sure that the weather is conducive to backyard fires. High winds can kick up the flames and send embers flying. And if you are not paying attention, flames can flare-up outside the fire pit and get out of control. Before lighting a fire, check the local forecast to make sure that there are no storms that could suddenly come up. Isolated storms have high winds that can create a volatile situation if caught unprepared.

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Keep Your Yard Clean

To keep the fire risk low, it is advisable to keep your yard clear of all debris. This means keeping dry leaves, and yard waste picked up and ensuring that there are no flammable items near the fire. This can include clothing or blankets that people may bring to the fire area. You may also want to invest in the Walden Snuffer Lid to help put your fire out. It is a great option to keep the sparks contained while the fire consumes the oxygen and slowly goes out.

Campfires and fire pits are a great way to spend time with the most people you care about. But leaving a fire burning or lit overnight is inviting trouble, and you can avoid the danger by making sure the fire is completely put out after every use.