Summer is in full swing for those living in the Southern Hemisphere, causing many of us to seek outdoor adventures and dining opportunities. The Firewood Company looks at how to light the perfect firepit and the rules and regulations to look out for.
Summer is undoubtedly upon us, and as the thermostat gets turned up, many seek more surreal outdoor experiences. Meaning – firepits.
Depending on where you live, the winter outdoor firepit experience can be short-lived in the blistering cold. However, once the weather turns to hot days and cool nights, now is the perfect time to light an outdoor fire and enjoy the longer days, a crackling fire in the company of friends and family.
Things To Consider Before Lighting Your Firepit
The most important aspect is safety and checking the rules and regulations of your local council. For example, some urban councils have banned outdoor fireplaces due to the amount of smoke they can create in a heavily populated area. So, it’s always best to double-check before you set your fire. This includes professionally made fire bowls and firepits, homemade bowls, and above-ground or inbuilt open fireplaces – and of course the campsite fire. Also, anything that uses charcoal or wood as a fuel and that is open to the air. This includes braziers and open drum incinerators.
Firepit enthusiasts also need to monitor the current fire season. If you are in a banned or prohibited fire season you are not permitted to light any open fires, this includes firepits and fire bowls. You could be up for a rather hefty fine if you ignore this. With an open season, you can light fires, but it must be safe (see below). A restricted fire season will allow you to burn a fire bowl or firepit; however, you may require a permit from your local council and inform local authorities.
Prohibited fire season means just that – under no circumstances are open fires permitted.
The New Zealand Fire and Emergency also note that the fire must be at least 0.5 square metres and not to light your fire within three metres of any building, hedge, or shelter belt. It is also vital you check and remove any compostable material from around your firepit or bowl. Think of long grass, overhanging branches, and other possible ignition points. Remember that embers from your fire can ignite dry material easily and quickly.
Homeowners are also urged always to have a good water source readily available in case the fire gets out of control. Finally, always supervise the fire and extinguish it correctly before leaving the firepit.
The great news is this doesn’t affect all fire types – meaning your BBQ season won’t be disturbed (at home anyway). This is for gas-operated BBQs and charcoal grills or BBQs, but it is highly advised to be thoughtful – don’t light on balconies, decking, under rooftops, or enclosed areas.
How To Light A Firepit with No Smoke
Another aspect, particularly in an urban setting, is to consider your neighbours. Having a chat and letting them know you are going to light your firepit is an excellent habit to get into, so they don’t worry about the smell. Also cut down on the disturbance to your neighbours by positioning your firepit, fire bowl, or brazier correctly.
When it comes to your firepit and fire bowl, it’s always best to ensure you burn dry wood. Kiln-dried is the very best option. If you burn wet or unseasoned green wood, you’ll only have a barrage of smoke. Turning your ambient experience into a smoky nightmare!
Other Tips for a Clean Burning Firepit Include:
Keep it clean! Remove all ash and unburnt logs. An empty fresh fire bowl with good quality dry wood will burn clean and not create excessive smoke.
Kindling is key! Like with your indoor fires, start with kindling and softwoods to get the fire off to a quick start.
Swap over to kiln-dried hardwoods once the fire is going. This will extend the burn time and heat and produce less smoke.
With some preparation and knowledge, you can ensure you stick to the rules and enjoy a smoke-free and enjoyable outdoor fire experience.
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