Are Fire Pit Tables Dangerous? What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Buying.

The first time I saw a fire pit table was at my cousin’s backyard party. It looked like something straight out of a magazine, a stylish table, flames flickering in the centre, everyone gathered around sipping drinks and chatting. I thought, Wow, that’s classy.

Then the little voice in my head kicked in: Hang on, aren’t fire pit tables dangerous? You’ve basically got fire in the middle of your furniture.

And you know what? That question makes sense. Anytime there’s fire involved, there’s potential for risk. But just like a gas barbecue or a wood stove, the danger depends on how you use it. So let’s dive into this properly.

Why People Even Ask “Are Fire Pit Tables Dangerous?”

There are a few obvious reasons people hesitate before buying one:

• Open flame. Fire isn’t something you can “pause” like Netflix. It needs constant respect.
  
  

• Fuel. Gas leaks can happen. Wood embers can fly out. Both can cause problems.
  
  

• Location mistakes. People put them under patios, near walls, or on wooden decks without protection. That’s asking for trouble.
  
  

• Kids and pets. If you’ve got children who love exploring, or a curious dog, they’re going to wander too close.
  
  

• Carbon monoxide. Burning fuel indoors (or even in a semi-closed garage) is a huge no-go. Invisible gas, very dangerous.
  
  

So yes, if misused, fire pit tables can be risky. But used properly? They’re no scarier than any other outdoor flame source.

Gas vs Wood Fire Pit Tables: Which Is Safer?

Here’s the big debate.

• Gas fire pit tables. These are the ones I usually recommend. They run on propane or natural gas, start with the flick of a switch, and you can turn them off instantly. Flames are controlled, no sparks flying around. The main thing to watch is leaks, but checking your hoses regularly sorts that out.
  
  

• Wood-burning fire pit tables. Now these feel like a proper campfire. Crackling wood, smoky smell, the whole vibe. But they come with sparks, embers, and smoke. They demand more space, more attention, and a good spark screen.
  
  

So, are fire pit tables dangerous? The gas ones, not really, if you’re smart. The wood ones? More so, but still manageable if you’re careful.

Placement: The Deal-Breaker.

You know what makes most fire pit accidents happen? Not the fire itself, it’s where the table is put.

• Too close to the walls. Heat can scorch siding or paint. Flames can actually ignite nearby objects.
  
  

• On decks. Wooden decks and fire aren’t a great combo. If you’re set on putting one there, you need a fireproof mat or a proper base.
  
  

• Uneven ground. If it wobbles, it’s risky. A tippy fire pit is a recipe for disaster.
  
  

Rule of thumb: 3 metres (10 feet) away from anything that can burn. And solid, flat, fireproof ground. Always.

When Fire Pit Tables Get Dangerous,

Let’s be real: it’s not the tables that are “bad.” It’s how people use them. Here are the big mistakes:

• Leaving them unattended. You wouldn’t walk off and leave a campfire alone. Same rule here.
  
  

• Overloading wood-burning pits with too much fuel. Bigger flames aren’t always better.
  
  

• Using the wrong fuel, lighter fluid, petrol, or anything that’s not designed for the table. Huge mistake.
  
  

• Lighting them in enclosed spaces. I’ve seen people try to use fire pits in garages or under awnings. Don’t. Carbon monoxide is silent and deadly.
  
  

• Ignoring the manual. Manufacturers actually know what they’re talking about. If they say “keep 3 metres clearance,” listen.
  
  

So, How Do You Stay Safe?

Here are the basics that keep you and your fire pit table out of the danger zone:

1. Check your setup every time. For gas tables, inspect hoses. For wood, make sure the screen is in place.
   
   

2. Keep water or an extinguisher nearby. You’ll probably never need it, but if you do, it’s a lifesaver.
   
   

3. Set rules for kids and pets. Treat it like a campfire: no running near it, no touching.
   
   

4. Don’t cover it while it’s hot. Fire pit tables take time to cool. Wait before putting on any protective cover.
   
   

5. Use common sense. Windy day? Skip it. Dry season? Double-check local fire bans.
   
   

Can You Put a Fire Pit Table on a Deck or Patio?

This one comes up all the time.

• Stone or concrete patios. Usually safe, as long as you follow clearance guidelines.
  
  

• Wooden decks. Riskier. Gas tables can work with a proper mat underneath. Wood-burning ones? I’d avoid it unless you’ve got serious protection.
  
  

• Composite decks. These can warp or melt. Always check the manufacturer’s advice first.
  
  

Bottom line: if it’s flammable, protect it before you put a fire feature on top.

Weather and Fire Pits Don’t Always Mix

Fire pit tables aren’t a “light it whenever” deal. Weather plays a role:

• Wind. Sparks and flames travel further than you think.
  
  

• Dry conditions. In fire-prone areas, even one ember can start something serious.
  
  

• Rain. Not dangerous, but pointless. Also, cover your table when not in use, or you’ll end up with rust.
  
  

Funny enough, They Can Be Safer Than Other Options.

It sounds odd, but a fire pit table can actually be safer than some alternatives.

• Compared to bonfires, they’re smaller and contained.
  
  

• Compared to cheap fire bowls, they’re usually sturdier.
  
  

• Compared to chimineas, they spread heat more evenly and don’t funnel sparks into the air.
  
  

So while the name “fire pit” might sound scary, in practice, they’re often the safer choice.

My Own Experience

I’ve had both types. My gas fire pit table is my favourite. I love that I can switch it off in an instant and not worry about embers. It feels safe, even when friends bring their kids over.

The wood one? I still use it sometimes, but only when I want that campfire crackle and I know I’ll be sitting there the whole time. It’s more work and needs more caution.

Have I ever had a sketchy moment? Yes, once, I overloaded it with wood, and the flames were way higher than they should’ve been. Lesson learned: less fuel, more control.

So, Are Fire Pit Tables Dangerous?

Here’s the honest truth: they’re only as dangerous as the person using them.

• Respect the fire.
  
  

• Place the table correctly.
  
  

• Supervise while it’s lit.
  
  

• Use the right fuel.
  
  

Do those things, and your fire pit table is no more dangerous than a barbecue. Skip those steps, and yes, it can become a hazard quickly.

Think of it like driving. Dangerous in the wrong hands, perfectly fine if you follow the rules.