How to Extinguish a Gas or Propane Fire Pit Table Safely

Key Takeaways – Safe Shutdown in Plain Language

• For most full-size gas and propane fire pit tables, the basic shutdown sequence is simple: turn the control knob to OFF, then close the fuel valve, let everything cool completely, and only then cover or walk away.
  
• The Safe Shutdown Sequence (S³) you’ll use is: Flame → Fuel → Finish. Turn off the flame at the control, shut off the fuel source, then finish by cooling, cleaning, and covering.
  
• Biggest mistakes to avoid: throwing water on a gas flame, closing the tank valve before the control knob, covering while hot, and ignoring gas smells.
  
• Always let burners, glass or lava rock, and metal surfaces cool for at least 15–30 minutes (or as your manual specifies) before touching or covering.
  
• This guide is part of our broader safety series. For clearances, decks, and nearby structures, see – Fire Pit & Fire Pit Table Safety (U.S. Homeowner Guide).
  
  

1. Why Shutdown Matters as Much as Setup

You’ve measured clearances, checked your deck surface, and chosen a CSA/UL-listed fire pit table. But at the end of the night — guests tired, kids running around, maybe wind picking up — the single most important moment is how you shut everything down.

Safe extinguishing:

• Prevents accidental re-ignition or gas leaks overnight
  
• Protects burners, media, and ignition parts from thermal shock
  
• Reduces the chance of soot, stains, or singed surroundings
  
• Makes it easier to relight next time without troubleshooting
  

In this guide you’ll get a simple, repeatable routine to follow whether you have a propane tank in the base, a remote 20 lb propane tank, or a hard-plumbed natural gas line. We’ll also show you what not to do, how to put out a fire pit quickly and safely, and when to call a pro.

For placement, distances, and other situational questions, you can always hop back to – Fire Pit & Fire Pit Table Safety (U.S. Homeowner Guide).

 

2. Know Your Setup: Propane vs. Natural Gas

Before you switch anything off, you need to know what you’re controlling.

Most full-size gas fire pit tables fall into one of these setups:

1. Propane tank in the base
   
   
• A standard 20 lb propane tank for fire pit stored under the table.
• Access door in the base; flexible hose from tank to burner control.
  
  
2. Remote propane tank
• Tank sits in a separate enclosure or box (sometimes a “small propane tank for fire pit” that’s decorative).
  Hose runs along or under the patio to the table.
  
  
3. Hard-plumbed natural gas line
• Rigid or flexible gas line from your home’s gas system.
• Usually includes an outside shutoff valve and, in some cases, an indoor or meter-side shutoff too.

The golden rule to remember is:

Closest control to the flame first, fuel source second.

You always shut the burner control off before closing the tank or line valve. That way, the system stops feeding gas through the burner orifice before you shut the supply itself.

If you’re still shopping for a unit that fits your space and fuel type, you can browse our Fire Pit Tables Collection.

 

3. Quick Answer: The Safe Shutdown Sequence (S³)

Let’s give you the “at-a-glance” routine first.

Safe Shutdown Sequence (S³) = Flame → Fuel → Finish

1. Flame – Turn the control knob to OFF (and any ignition switch or remote to OFF).
   
2. Fuel – Close the propane tank valve or natural gas shutoff valve.
   
3. Finish – Let the system cool, do a quick safety check, then cover only after everything is cold and dry.
   

This applies whether you’re wondering how to extinguish a fire pit quickly after a sudden change in weather or just wrapping up a normal evening.

 

4. Step-by-Step: How to Extinguish a Propane Fire Pit Table

Propane fire pit tables are the most common, so we’ll walk through them in detail. The principles apply to both in-base tanks and remote propane enclosures.

1. Clear the area
• Ask guests — especially kids and pets — to step back a few feet (about 3 ft / 0.9 m).
• Remove blankets, paper plates, or anything light that could blow into the flame.

2. Turn the burner control knob to OFF
• Push in and rotate the control knob fully to the OFF position.
• For electronic ignition systems, also flick the ignition switch or remote to OFF.
• You should see the flame die out and hear the soft hiss of gas stop.

3. Wait a few seconds
• Give it 10–30 seconds to ensure no small pilot flame remains.
• If your unit has a standing pilot, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for turning the pilot off if desired.

4. Close the propane tank valve
• Open the access door or remote tank enclosure.
• Turn the tank valve clockwise until it stops snugly. Don’t force it.
• This step is important — shutting off the control knob alone can still leave pressurized gas in the hose.

5. Let everything cool
• Lava rock, fire glass, and metal components can stay very hot.
• Wait at least 15–30 minutes (or the time stated in your manual) before touching or moving anything.

6. Quick post-shutdown check
• Without touching hot parts, visually scan hose connections and fittings.
• If you smell gas or hear a hiss after shutdown, skip ahead to the Problem/Solution section.

7. Cover only after full cooldown
• Once everything is cool and dry, place a solid lid or breathable weather cover.
• This protects burners and media but never serves as an extinguishing method.

5. Step-by-Step: How to Extinguish a Natural Gas Fire Pit Table

Natural gas setups behave similarly but are tied into your home’s gas system, so it’s even more important to follow the installation manual and local code.

Important: Any work on the line itself should be done by a licensed professional.

Standard Natural Gas Shutdown

1. Turn burner control to OFF
• As with propane, shut the flame down at the control knob first.
• Confirm that all flames are out and that no pilot remains lit (unless your system is designed for a standing pilot).
  
  
2. Close the outdoor shutoff valve (if not using regularly)
• Many codes require an accessible shutoff valve near the appliance.
• Turn the valve handle so it’s perpendicular to the pipe (OFF position) if you won’t be using the fire pit for a while, during storms, or for the off-season.
  
  
3. Know your upstream shutoffs
• Some installations have an additional shutoff inside the house or near the gas meter.
• Your installer or utility provider can show you how and when to use these in an emergency.
  
  
4. Ventilation still matters
• Even after shutdown, a small amount of combustion products may linger.
• Keep your area ventilated and consult Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Safety if you use your fire feature under a covered patio or pergola.
  

 

6. What Not To Do (Common Shutdown Mistakes)

When people search how to put out fire pit quickly, they sometimes get advice that works for wood fires — but is dangerous for gas.

Avoid these mistakes:

• Do not throw water on active gas flames.
   Water can crack ceramic logs, shatter glass media, and cause thermal shock to burners and pans. It also doesn’t stop gas flow.
  
• Do not close the tank valve first.
   Closing the tank with the burner still “ON” forces the system to pull hard on any remaining gas, sometimes causing loud pops or sputtering flames.
  
• Do not cover while hot.
   Trapping heat under a cover can warp finishes, damage igniters, and in extreme cases affect nearby materials.
  
• Do not block ventilation openings.
   Those vents in the base help gas dissipate. Never tape or cover them to “keep bugs out” without manufacturer-approved solutions.
  
• Do not store flammables under the table.
   Keep propane cylinders, lighter fluid, cushions, or decor away from burner compartments.
  
• Do not move the table while still hot.
   You risk sloshing media, damaging gas connections, or burning yourself.
  

7. Before-You-Shut-Down Checklist

Before you even touch the knob, take a quick look around.

Use this moment to reassess your whole layout:

• If you’re on a deck, review any concerns about heat transfer or surface protection with Deck Safety – Wood, Composite & Stone Decks.
  
• If you’re close to a pergola, awning, or gazebo, revisit clearances via Pergolas, Awnings & Covered Structures.
  
• If your unit sits near hedges, backyard fences, or pool edges, see Trees, Fences & Pools: Safe Distances.
  

A 10-second scan now often prevents a 10-minute cleanup later.

 

8. After-Use Cooling & Securing

Once the flames are out and fuel is shut off, your job isn’t quite done.

After-Use cooling & cleanup checklist

Key steps:

1. Let it cool fully
• Teach family members that glass, lava rock, and metal components stay hot even when they look calm and blue or orange embers are gone.
• A good rule: if in doubt, wait another 10–15 minutes.
  
  
2. Light cleanup (once cool)
• Brush away crumbs, leaves, or ash that may have landed on the table surface or in the pan.
• This helps prevent unwanted smells or stains next time.
  
  
3. Inspect hoses and fittings
• Look for kinks, cracking, or rubbing where the hose passes through metal edges.
• If anything looks worn, schedule a professional inspection before the next use.
  
  
4. Confirm valves are OFF
• Double-check that the propane tank valve or natural gas shutoff is closed.
• Many homeowners like to form a habit: last thing you do before going inside is glance at the valve handle.
  
  
5. Cover and protect (once cool & dry)
• Use a solid metal or hard cover to keep burners and media clean between uses.
• On top of that, you can add a weather cover to protect finishes.

Check out Protective cover for gas/propane fire pit table
 

9. Problem/Solution Scenarios

Real life doesn’t always follow the script. Here are two common “uh-oh” moments and what to do.

Scenario 1: The Flame Won’t Go Out When I Turn the Knob to OFF

What you notice

• You rotate the knob to OFF, but the flame keeps burning or only slowly shrinks.
  

Likely causes

• The knob isn’t fully seated in the OFF position.
  
• There’s residual gas in the burner pan.
  
• In rare cases, the valve or control assembly could be sticking.
  

Immediate steps

1. Try turning the control knob firmly to OFF again.
   
2. If flames still persist after a few seconds, close the propane tank valve or line shutoff immediately.
   
3. Keep everyone at least 10 ft (3 m) away until the flame dies.
   
4. Once cool, do not relight until a professional or the manufacturer’s support team has checked the system.
   

For ongoing performance issues, check Troubleshooting – Whistling, Weak Ignition & Flicker Issues.

Scenario 2: I Smell Gas After Shutdown

What you notice

• Flames are out, but there’s a gas smell near the table or tank.
  

Likely causes

• A loose connection at the regulator or hose.
  
• Tank valve not fully closed.
  
• Damage to the hose or fittings.
  

Immediate steps

1. Do not relight the fire pit or any nearby flame.
   
2. Close the tank valve or line shutoff if it’s safe to approach.
   
3. Keep people away and avoid using anything that could cause a spark.
   
4. Ventilate the area — particularly if under a covered patio — and review Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Safety.
   
5. Contact your installer, gas supplier, or a licensed technician to inspect the system before using it again.
   
   

10. Storing & Covering Between Uses

Shutdown habits extend into how you treat your fire feature in the off-season.

• Propane tanks
  
  • It’s generally wise to turn the tank valve OFF after every use.
    
  • For longer breaks, disconnect the regulator and store the tank upright, outdoors, and in a ventilated space — never in a garage or enclosed room.
    
  • If you’re wondering what size propane tank for fire pit table is appropriate, follow your manual; many use a 20 lb cylinder, but some built-ins use larger sizes.
    
    
• Natural gas lines
  
  • Use the local shutoff when you won’t use the appliance for an extended period (e.g., winter).
    
  • Ask your gas company or installer if there are additional seasonal steps recommended in your climate.
    
    
• Covers, wind guards, and deflectors
  
• • Use a lid or cover only once you’re sure every surface is cool.
    
  • Wind guards and heat deflectors should be removed or secured according to your manual before heavy storms.
    

For add-ons that make shutdown and storage easier, see Accessories – Covers, Wind Guards & Heat Deflectors.

 

11. FAQs – Quick Answers to Common Questions

Q1. Is it safe to leave a propane fire pit on overnight?
No. Gas and propane fire pit tables are meant for attended use only. Always turn the control knob OFF, close the propane valve, and verify the flame is fully out before going to bed or leaving the house.

Q2. Should I turn off the propane tank after every use?
Yes. Turn the burner control OFF first, then close the propane tank valve after every session. This reduces the chance of small leaks and keeps the system depressurized between uses.

Q3. How to extinguish a fire pit quickly if weather changes suddenly?
Use the same Safe Shutdown Sequence: control knob OFF → tank/line valve OFF → clear the area. Resist the urge to throw water on the burner; focus on cutting the gas supply instead.

Q4. Are propane fire pits safe to breathe around?
When used outdoors with good airflow and proper ventilation, propane fire pits are generally considered safe for short-term use. If anyone feels unwell or you’re in a semi-enclosed space, shut down the unit and review Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Safety.

Q5. How long should I wait before covering my fire pit table?
At minimum, wait 15–30 minutes or until all parts are cool to the touch and dry. Check your owner’s manual; some units specify longer cooldown times based on media and burner size.

Q6. Do I need a fire extinguisher near my fire pit?
Having a Class B/C fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby is a simple, smart precaution. It’s especially helpful if surrounding furniture or decor were to catch fire.

Q7. Can I leave my propane tank connected year-round?
Many manufacturers allow a 20 lb propane tank to stay connected under the table, provided the valve is closed when not in use and the base is ventilated. For long off-seasons or harsh climates, disconnecting and storing the tank in a safe outdoor location is usually recommended.

Q8. How do I put out fire pit odors or smoke?
 Gas units should have minimal smoke. If you smell strong fuel or soot, shut the system down following S³, let it cool, clean the burner area, and consult Troubleshooting – Whistling, Weak Ignition & Flicker Issues if the problem continues.

 

12. Conclusion & Next Steps

Once you’ve followed the Safe Shutdown Sequence a few times, it becomes second nature:

Flame → Fuel → Finish
Turn the flame off at the control.
Shut off the fuel at the tank or line.
Let everything cool, clean up, and cover.

Pair that habit with good placement, solid ventilation, and a little awareness, and your gas or propane fire pit table becomes a relaxing focal point rather than a source of worry.

Before your next burn, it’s worth revisiting:

• Overall placement and clearances: Fire Pit & Fire Pit Table Safety: Distances, Decks & Trees (U.S. Homeowner Guide).
  
• Surfaces and structures: Deck Safety – Wood, Composite & Stone Decks and Ventilation & Carbon Monoxide Safety.
  
  

When you’re ready to upgrade your setup or add safety gear:

Shop Fire-Safe Accessories
Talk to a Safety Specialist
Shop Fire Pits & Fire Pit Tables