Enjoying a fire pit can be one of the most relaxing experiences, but there’s always that moment when the fire starts to die down, and you’re left waiting for it to burn safely. You don’t want to sit and watch it for hours, especially when you’re eager to move on with your evening or wind down after a long day.
While it's important to let the fire burn out naturally, sometimes you need a quicker, safer way to extinguish it without compromising the longevity of your fire pit. Here are the best ways to put out a fire pit safely.
How To Put Out a Wood-Burning Fire Pit
Here are the steps you should take to extinguish your wood-burning fire pit so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worry.
Let the Fire Burn To Ashes
Allow your fire to burn down naturally. This step gives the flames time to die out and allows most of the wood to turn into coals and ash. Stop adding new fuel an hour or so before you're ready to put out the fire to help cool it down. Avoid trying to extinguish a strong blaze, as doing so too quickly can create dangerous conditions.
Spread Out the Ashes
Once the fire has mostly burned out, use a poker or shovel to spread the hot coals and ashes across the bottom of the pit. This will help any remaining embers to burn out more efficiently. Always stay attentive to ensure that no embers are left smoldering.
Pour Water Over the Ashes
After the fire has burned down to ashes, slowly pour water over the entire bed. It’s important to do this steadily, as pouring too much water at once can create steam or cause your fire pit to crack, especially if it’s made of ceramic or metal. The goal is to saturate the ashes and stop any remaining heat from continuing to smolder.
Once you no longer hear hissing sounds or see smoke, you can be confident the fire is out. When you pour water over the ashes, make sure your fire pit is far from your house and nowhere near any other flammable materials such as dry leaves, brush, or outdoor furniture.
Stir the Ashes
To ensure that every ember has been extinguished, stir the wet ashes with a shovel or stick. Stirring exposes hidden hot spots and helps the water penetrate everything. Once you're sure that everything is cold, it’s safe to dispose of the ashes in a metal container. You can even touch the ashes lightly to ensure no residual heat is left.
4 Ways To Put Out a Fire Pit Without Water
Here are four ways to safely extinguish a fire pit without water.
1. Smother the Fire
If you don’t have water handy, one of the most effective ways to put out a wood-burning fire is by smothering it with a thick layer of dirt or sand. This works by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply, which is essential for combustion.
The key here is to cover the fire as thoroughly as possible, making sure you completely bury the burning coals and embers. Once you smother the fire, leave it for several minutes. During this time, check for any signs of smoke or heat. If you notice any glowing embers, add more sand or dirt until they are fully extinguished.
2. Use a Snuffer Cover
A snuffer is a metal lid that fits over your fire pit to cut off the oxygen supply, effectively putting the fire out. Different fire pit styles will have different snuffers designed to fit their specific shape and size, so make sure the snuffer is compatible with your pit.
Simply place the snuffer over the fire, and the lack of oxygen will cause the flames to go out. Make sure the snuffer fits securely on your fire pit and cover the fire until it is completely extinguished. Afterward, check the coals and stir them to ensure they’re completely cool.
3. Use a Fire Extinguisher
In an emergency, a fire extinguisher can quickly put out a fire pit. If the fire is small and manageable, use the PASS method:
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Pull the pin
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Aim at the base of the fire
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Squeeze the handle
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Sweep side to side
Be sure to choose an extinguisher rated for wood fires and stand at a safe distance while using it. Keep in mind that this method will require you to clean up chemical residue afterward.
4. Turn off the Fuel Source
If you're using a gas fire pit, the safest way to extinguish it is simply by turning off the fuel supply. Turn the gas valve to the off position and allow the burner and components to cool.
Never put water or sand on a gas fire pit, as this can cause damage and create safety risks. Always make sure the pit has fully cooled before touching any components, since they can stay hot for a while.
Choose Handcrafted Copper Fire Pits From CopperSmith
Learning how to put out your fire pit the right way means having less stress while you enjoy the best fire pit experience with your friends and family.
At World CopperSmith, our handcrafted fire pits are made-to-order with premium materials, endless finish options, and sustainable craftsmanship. Backed by expert design tools and concierge-level service, we’ll help you create a custom fire pit that’s not only safe and durable but also a stunning focal point for your backyard gatherings. Contact CopperSmith to elevate your outdoor space today.