The newest Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services (DPS) Podcast episode, “Fire Pit Safety,” addresses the importance of safety when using a backyard fire pit. DPS Customer Support and Outreach Division Chief Gail Lucas, who hosts the podcast, is joined by DPS Fire Code Compliance Program Manager Michael Marchesani for a conversation filled with practical advice and essential tips to know before planning your next social gathering around a backyard fire pit. Fire pits are popular this time of the year when the temperatures are cooler. Dry weather, wind speed, and lack of rain should always be considered when deciding if the conditions are right for lighting up an outdoor fire. Other topics covered in this episode include how far back to keep people (and pets) from the fire pit to prevent injuries, how far it should be located from nearby structures (such as your home), the importance of having a water source nearby to extinguish the fire and how to dispose of the ashes safely. Got an idea or question for a future podcast episode? Your input is important. Email your ideas and questions to dps.podcast@montgomerycountymd.gov.