Just built a firepit ring with my 6 and 9 year old using some pavers and landscape fabric underneath. We're planning to do s'mores this weekend but I'm paranoid about safety. Have a small sandbox about 8 feet away, no overhanging branches directly above. Is there anything else I should be thinking about before we light it up? First time doing this with the kids.
Landscape fabric is a good call. I'd add a reminder to keep it at least 10 feet from any structures or overhanging branches. Lost a fence section last summer because I got lazy with distance.
That's awesome you built it with them. One thing I learned the hard way - have a dedicated metal bucket nearby filled with water or sand. Sounds paranoid but my 7yo thought it would be funny to throw stuff in once.
Check your local fire codes first. Some areas have restrictions on backyard firepits depending on lot size. Got a warning from a neighbor once because I didn't know about ours.
Make sure you have a fire extinguisher within arm's reach and consider a metal mesh screen to keep embers contained. The kids will want to poke everything with sticks.
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How deep did you go with the pavers? I'd recommend at least 12 inches of clearance around the base. Also never leave it unattended even for a second once you light it up.