Campfire Rules: Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Night

Nothing feels more rewarding than a crackling fire under a starry sky. But a good fire is only fun when you follow a few simple rules. Below you’ll find practical advice you can start using the moment you arrive at your campsite.

Set Up Your Campfire Safely

First, pick a spot that’s already marked for fires. Look for a fire pit, cleared gravel area, or a place away from trees, overhanging branches, and dry grass. If there’s no designated spot, choose a flat, open area at least ten metres from anything that could catch fire.

Clear a 1‑meter radius around the site. Remove leaves, twigs, and any flammable material. Keep a bucket of water, a sand bucket, or a fire extinguisher nearby – it’s your go‑to safety net.

Gather three types of wood: tinder (dry leaves or paper), kindling (small sticks), and fuel (larger logs). Use only seasoned wood; wet or green wood throws up smoke and can be hard to control.When you’re ready to light, arrange a tee‑pee or log‑cabin structure with tinder in the centre. Light the tinder with a match or lighter, then gently add kindling as the fire catches. Never use accelerants like gasoline – they’re a fast track to a dangerous flare‑up.

Keep the fire at a manageable size. A low‑medium flame gives enough heat for cooking and warmth without spreading quickly. Never leave a fire unattended, especially if kids or pets are around. Assign one adult to watch the flame at all times.

Stay aware of the wind. A sudden gust can push sparks toward dry grass. If it’s windy, consider building a windbreak using a stone wall or log barrier, or simply skip the fire that night.

Putting Out the Fire Properly

When you’re done, it’s crucial to extinguish the fire completely. Sprinkle water over the embers, stir the ash with a stick, and add more water until the hissing stops. The mixture should be cool to the touch; if it’s still warm, repeat the process.

If you don’t have water, use sand or soil to smother the flames. Cover the coals fully and stir, then repeat until there’s no heat left. Never assume a fire is out just because the flames have died.

Check the site before you leave. Make sure no glowing embers remain, and that the area is as clean as when you arrived. Pack up any leftover wood, trash, and tools, leaving the campsite tidy for the next camper.Following these campfire rules protects the environment, keeps fellow campers safe, and lets you enjoy many more nights under the stars. With a little preparation and attention, your fire will be the highlight of the trip, not a source of worry.