There’s nothing like a traditional fire for warmth, food preparation, and relaxation while camping in the great outdoors. Campfires are staples of campouts, and not having one can leave the whole experience feeling a little lackluster. That said, campfires are big responsibilities. They’re easy to start, enjoy, take for granted, and forget about when it’s time to hit the sack. Here are four safety tips to remember with campfires so you and your fellow campers can have fun and protect themselves and the surrounding environment.
Local Rules and Regulations
The United States has seen a spate of wildfires over the past few decades, and most wildfires in the US occur due to human causes. Acres of fields and forests are laid to waste by fires that started out as abandoned campfires.
Get familiar with local laws about fires before setting up a campfire. Some campsites may not allow campfires. In other cases, conditions—dry weather, drought, and other circumstances—may forbid campfires. Watch for signage signaling such conditions, and ask rangers or whoever is in charge if you can set up a fire.
Location Is Everything
If you are allowed to have a campfire, find the perfect spot for it on your site. Make sure it’s at least 15 feet away from trees or other foliage. Look for evidence of previous fires. There may be a shallow pit or ring of stones at your campsite. Clear the space of leaves and other materials that can catch fire. Ideally, set up the campfire near a water source so you can immediately douse the flames when it’s time to turn in.
Fire-Starting Tips
When creating a fire, start small. Set up your tinder, or the materials that burn easily and provide a tremendous amount of heat all at once. Cotton balls, pine needles, and dry leaves are great tinder. Make sure to leave the stack nice and airy so oxygen can get in and fuel the fire.
Next, ignite the tinder with matches, a lighter, or a spark from a flint and steel kit. Once the tinder burns, ensure the kindling catches, as well. Blow on it gently to help the flow of oxygen. Never ever use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start your fire. Once the kindling catches, add the logs or other fuel. And keep a container of water nearby, just in case the flames get out of control.
Out Like a Light
When it’s time to turn in or pack up camp, make sure your campfire is out for good. Douse the flames and embers until you can’t see any burning sections. Stir the coals with a stick, then douse the fire again. Stir the coals once more, and dig up and turn over the dirt below the remains of the former fire. If you have a bag of sand handy, you can smother the embers with it. Double-check that the embers are finally out before leaving. Those are just four safety tips to remember with campfires. What are some other ways you keep things safe for the campers to come?
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