How to Build a Fire Pit

People have been enjoying the comfort of bonfires for thousands of years and with a little work you can too. Digging a fire pit to control your bonfire is essential, as this helps protect the fire from wind while still allowing you to enjoy the warmth.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Shovel
• Field stones
• Gravel

1. Select an appropriate location for your fire pit that is away from homes, trees, power lines and other structures.
2. Clear at least a 12-foot diameter area of flammable items like pine needles, dry grass, leaves and firewood.
3. Dig about a one-foot deep circular hole that is the diameter you desire for your fire.
4. Fill the hole with six inches of gravel or smaller field stones to speed drainage so that your pit does not fill with rain.
5. Encircle this hole with a slightly larger ring of natural field stones.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your local fire department to learn if it is legal for you to have a fire pit and any restrictions on them.
• If your pit still fills with water when it rains you should dig it deeper and add more gravel.
• For a nicer look consider using bricks and mortar to encircle the fire pit.
• Always put the fire out completely when you are leaving the area. Stir the embers and soak the pit heavily to ensure it is out. Heat can remain and reignite a previously extinguished fire.
• Have a water hose nearby should the fire spread beyond the fire pit.

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