What are some tips for campfire safety? Follow certain procedures for campfire safety. Campfires can be warm, cozy, and lots of fun to roast marshmallows over. They can also become raging infernos if not...
Campfires can be warm, cozy, and lots of fun to roast marshmallows over. They can also become raging infernos if not properly used and monitored. During the summer months it is common for restrictions to be placed on setting fires of any kind for the protection of everyone. Please check with local officials to make sure you are in compliance with any bans that may be in force for your area. The restrictions may apply to campfires, trash burning, bon fires, or any other kinds of fire setting.
Kidde is the world's largest manufacturer of fire safety products for residential and commercial. Heather Caldwell, Kidde's Communications Manager urges, "The first thing to know about campfire safety is to check with rangers before lighting any sort of fire. You should always obey park regulations." Restrictions may be placed on certain locations due to existing forest fires, extreme drought, or for a number of other reasons.
When campfires are allowed, it is important to take precautions to make sure the fire does not get out of control. Start your fire downwind from your tent or sleeping area so as not to ignite any of your camping gear by accident. Clear the area about five feet around the spot where you plan to build your fire so surrounding leaves, ground plants, or other nearby materials do not catch fire. Caldwell suggests, "Dig a small pit surrounded by rocks. Never use gasoline to start a campfire. Never leave the fire unattended. Above all else, always put the campfire out before sleeping or leaving the campsite."
The best way to start a campfire is to use small kindling or newspaper with the flame from a match to light it. It is a good idea to have plenty of water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case the flames spread from your fire pit site. Extra firewood should be kept well away from the fire and upwind so sparks do not accidentally ignite the pile.
Children should not be allowed near a campfire for any reason. Far too many accident possibilities exist when kids and fire get too close to each other. Everyone in your group should know what to do if their own clothing catches fire. Stop, Drop, and Roll. This means stop in your tracks, drop to the ground, and roll your body on the ground to put out the flames. Never store fuel or other flammable liquids near the fire area and keep all hazardous materials in labeled containers so nothing is accidentally tossed into a fire. Never place aerosol cans or batteries of any kind into a fire.
In selecting a campfire site you should look for a level area in a shady location. Using a shovel to clear the area is the best way to remove any small plants, debris, or brush that may catch fire and spread the flames. You should form a rock or brick circle completely around the pit or area you wish to start the fire. Campfires should be kept small. When finished with the fire, do not trust it burn out on its own. Always put the fire out yourself. This can be done by pouring water over the fire, stirring the ashes, and wetting it again. Next toss some surrounding dirt into the mix. Sand may also be used to douse a campfire. Be sure that nothing is left smoldering when you leave the site. Never leave a burning campfire unattended even if you think it is just for a few moments.
