Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Making a fire
Sitting around a fire with a group of friends or family
is one of the great pleasures of camping. Fires are
perfect for story-telling, toasting marshmallows, or just
watching the flames. Not every campsite will let you
light a fire, and others will have rules about what you
can do and where you can do it. In the wild, fires are
frequently banned at higher elevations. In the
backcountry areas where they are permitted, you must
take great caution to ensure your fire does not ignite a
wildfire. Here are some ideas to consider:
• If you're permitted to light a fire at a campsite, then find
out where it's allowed, and what the rules are.
• Some campsites only allow the use of a fire pit or grate.
• Many campsites have fire rings. These are patches of
ground repeatedly used for fires, usually demarcated by
stones. You should use them. Never add a new fire ring.
• If you're lighting a fire in woodland, clear leaves and other
debris away first, until an area of bare earth is exposed.
• Only use downed wood for fuel.
• Don't light a fire which is overhung by anything else, like
low-hanging tree branches or a tarpaulin.
• Afterward, make certain your fire is out, by extinguishing the
campfire long before you leave the site. Never hurry—ideally,
allow it to burn itself to ash. Generously douse the ashes with
water. Ensure that all ashes are cool to the touch before you
depart. Add more water if you have any doubt that your fire's
ashes and embers are fully extinguished.
A teepee fire is the classic
campfire, but be sure to
build it in a safe place.
