Fire Safety is For Everyone's Safety

Let's be honest, camping just isn't the same without a campfire, but let's get back to the basics. Whether you are a camping veteran or a newbie it's always a good idea to review fire safety and why it is important. Fires are extremely dangerous while camping and can not only damage the land, but hurt humans and animals as well. More than 2.8 million acres are burned each year by people who start wildfires (nifc.gov). Also, nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by humans and could have been prevented (Smokeybear.com). So let's review how you can be safe and responsible if you decide to have a campfire while camping.

Wildfire Prevention

Let's start with one of the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to wildfire safety. Always check to see what fire restrictions are in place for the area you are going to camp at. This may determine if you can even have a fire at all. There can be temporary region restrictions or even campsite-specific restrictions, so be sure to check both before you even leave on your trip.

Campfire Basics

Next, let's talk about where to put your campfire. Be sure to check your campsite to see if they already have a pre-existing fire pit. If there's no pre-existing fire pit and you are allowed to build one at your campsite, be sure to pick a spot at least 15 feet away from any structures including trees and shrubbery. Make sure the spot you pick is on level ground as burning logs can roll and cause problems! Dig a hole about a foot deep for the fire pit. After that proceed to put rocks around the pit. 

Now that the pit is built let's go over how to build the actual fire! Be sure to keep a shovel and water nearby your campfire in case your fire starts to get out of control. Build your firebase with wood and use tinder to get it started. You can use small dry twigs, paper or cardboard scraps. Do not use gasoline or lighter fluid. To ignite your fire use a match or a lighter to get the tinder burning first. After the fire is lit, make sure the match is completely out and cold before discarding properly. Make sure to keep your fire small and make sure that someone is always supervising it.

When you are ready to extinguish your fire try to allow all the wood to burn completely to ash if possible. Pour water on your fire over all the embers. Continue to add water and even shovel some dirt on the fire until the pit is completely cool.

Conclusion 

Campfires are an integral part of the camping experience. Whether you are sitting around the campfire with friends and family having great conversation, or making some delicious smores, campfires can really bring people together, much like a dining room table. Just be responsible when making a campfire and you can have a fun and safe time while camping.

Sources: Smokeybear.com, nifc.gov

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