Gathering around the Wizard Fire Pit is one of life’s simplest pleasures. The warmth, the glow, the stories that flow. But when kids and pets are part of the mix, safety should always come first. At Wizard Fire Pits, we design our products with both performance and safety in mind. Here’s a complete guide to keeping your little ones and furry friends safe while enjoying the magic of your fire pit.
Understanding Heat and Safety Clearances
The majority of the heat from your Wizard Fire Pit comes out of the top, and it achieves a very efficient and hot flame, thanks to its secondary combustion system. Proper clearance for your fire pit is essential.
Clearance Guidelines:
- For the Regular and Jumbo Fire Pits, we advise a minimum 5m height clearance and 2m side clearance from any structure, roof, or flammable surface.
- For the Mini Fire Pit, we recommend a minimum height clearance of 3m and 1.5m side clearance.
- When using on a deck or patio, always place a Heat Proof Mat underneath to protect the surface. Even though most heat rises upward, the sides still get very hot, so always supervise children and pets nearby.
- If you’re using your fire pit under a veranda or covered deck, ensure you have enough ventilation and height clearance to stay safe.
Where and When You Can Use Your Fire Pit in New Zealand
Each region and local council has its own regulations for open fires and braziers. Before lighting up, use the Check It’s Alright tool at checkitsalright.nz to confirm if fire pits are allowed in your area.
Safe Operation Tips for Families
- Set boundaries by creating a no-go zone of at least 1.5–2 metres around the pit. You can mark it with outdoor rugs or stones.
- Always supervise children and pets. Never leave a burning fire unattended.
- Choose the right fuel. Avoid pine as it burns with heavy soot due to its high resin content. Best options include Manuka, Kanuka, Oak, Applewood, Macrocarpa, or hardwood pellets. Avoid driftwood, as its salt content is highly corrosive and can damage steel and be harmful to breathe in.
Build Quality and Safety Materials
Every Silver Wizard Fire Pit is built from Grade 304 stainless steel, known for its strength and rust resistance.
The Black Fire Pit is engineered with a triple-layer metal construction for superior durability and heat protection. The inner layer is made of high-grade Stainless Steel 304, the middle layer of Stainless Steel 201, and the outer layer of carbon steel coated with high-temperature black paint that resists fading and flaking under normal use.
Keep your Wizard Fire Pit covered with a Weatherproof Fire Pit Cover when not in use, especially in coastal areas where salt air can cause surface rust over time.
Heat Deflectors and Accessories for Safer Comfort
While most heat exits upward, Wizard Fire Pits has developed a Heat Deflector accessory that directs warmth outward, perfect for cooler nights. It’s not required for safer operation, but it enhances comfort.
Other helpful safety accessories include:
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Heat-proof mat for deck protection
- Weatherproof cover to prevent corrosion
Keeping Pets and Kids Comfortable
Pets are often curious about new smells and warmth. Keep them leashed or at a safe distance, and give them a comfortable space away from the direct heat. For kids, make safety part of the fun by letting them help gather wood but not tend to the flames.
Safety Meets Style
At Wizard Fire Pits, safety, design, and performance go hand in hand. Whether you choose the Mini, Regular, or Jumbo size, every model offers smokeless efficiency, strong stainless-steel construction, and a cosy atmosphere your family will love safely.