Safety tips for starting a fire while camping

Posted on 9 November 2024 By Louise Bell

From the soft crackling of logs burning to the opportunity to roast marshmallows in the great outdoors, camping with a fire is a symphony for the senses.

Unsplash/Josh Fotheringham

While it might be tempting to set out into the wild and hope for the best, several factors must be considered to start a fire safely and securely. Unsure how to harness your inner fire master skills? Take a look at a few tips and tricks to warm up your camping experience like a pro.

Use a fire pit

Most camping facilities will have space allocated for starting a campfire, so be sure to use these areas to create your fire. If the fire pit does not have a barrier to keep the flames at bay, you can line the area with rocks to keep the fire contained.

Check the weather conditions

Windy conditions are not only a problem for keeping your fire going but also a danger to the environment. Heavy winds can cause fire to spread from the allocated area and cause nearby items to catch fire. Keep an eye on flying embers jumping and extinguish them accordingly. 

Make sure there are no flammable items nearby

You’ll need to check the area and surroundings of the fire pit thoroughly to ensure no accidental wildfires start under your watch. Not only should you keep your flammable items out of harm’s way, but also check for branches, bushes, or leaves near the fire. To be safe, keep your personal belongings in your tent to avoid any accidents.

Never walk away from the fire & leave it unattended

While your fire might be in a space allocated for flames, this doesn’t mean it’s safe to leave the fire unattended. Fires can spread quickly, and you’ll need to be in the immediate surroundings to ensure you take care of the expanding flames appropriately.

Have water ready in case

Having items to smother or extinguish the fire you started is vital in case of emergencies. Whether it’s water for spreading fires or a blanket in case an oil fire erupts while cooking, you’ll need to be ready to act as a firefighter if push comes to shove.

You’ll also need to make sure the fire is completely extinguished before heading off to bed to prevent another fire from starting while you slumber. Pour water on the embers and push them around to make sure they’re not still alight.

ALSO READ: Glamping tips for beginners

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