Summer days are dwindling away and the night air is growing cool and crisp. There's still time to enjoy evenings with family and friends together in the backyard, even though the temperature might be in retrograde. An outdoor fireplace, chiminea or fire pit is a great way to extend the time you spend out of doors once the weather gets colder. The chiminea or chimenea, is a round stove with a tall chimney, and is made out of terra cotta or cast iron. Because it is smaller in size, it works well with intimate gatherings. Chimeneas burn wood, charcoal or pressed logs and can also be used with artificial logs as well. It's generally a good idea to cure your chimenea before using it by lighting a fire and letting it burn for awhile. Let it cool down and repeat the process an additional two or three times before actually using it. If you like a larger fire and the feeling of a campfire, then a cylindrical or pagoda outdoor fireplace is for you. It puts out more heat than a chiminea and you can roast marshmallows and hot dogs too. It's a great way to gather the family together. A fire pit is a smaller, more portable option made of steel, iron or copper. They generally come with a grid and a firescreen and radiate a lower amount of heat for smaller areas. For a strong source of heat, use a patio heater. They are made of steel, cast iron or aluminum and are fueled by propane or natural gas. The heat radiates up to a 20-foot diameter, to warm a large area perfect for parties. A table top version covers up to an 8-foot radius and runs on propane. Remember to exercise caution when you are using an outdoor fireplace, chimenea or fire pit. Make sure children know that the surface is hot so they don't get burned. Keep your outdoor fireplaces away from roof overhangs, hanging branches and anything flammable. Make sure children know not to touch. Check with your town hall for burning ordinances and if you will need a permit.
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