Check the local fire-danger level, which is usually displayed at ranger stations or along roads. If you can’t find one, try looking online or calling the local government office. Respect established fire pits. Do not make a new fire pit unless it is necessary. Using established fire pits avoids damaging the soil and local flora.
Use natural features like hills or boulders to shield your fire pit from the wind. Arrange your camp so that the wind is at your back to block or deflect it from blowing directly onto your fire. If the wind is strong enough to blow debris around, it’s too windy to start a fire!
Don’t place a sleeping bag next to a campfire because the material could catch fire before you notice it!
Even if the leaves or branches are damp, you still need to clear them from the area because they could dry out and catch fire. Try to rake up any dry leaves as well.
The width of the bowl could vary depending on how large of a fire you’re building, but a 1 foot (0. 30 m) diameter bowl should be sufficient for most campfires.
A ring with a 2 feet (0. 61 m) diameter should be large enough for a medium-sized fire, but you can make a larger ring if needed.
You’ll need about 4-5 logs to keep a campfire burning for 2 hours, so make sure you gather enough. Keep the logs you plan to use as fuel at least 10 feet (3. 0 m) away from the fire pit so there’s no chance they could catch fire. Make sure you gather enough fuel to last for as long as you need a fire. Bring your own firewood if there isn’t any available around you or if you’re not permitted to collect it. Contact a park ranger or a local government office to make sure you can gather and burn wood around you.
Always put out your fire when you are ready to leave. Soak the pit with water before you leave, even if you let the fire die out on its own. [11] X Expert Source Britt EdelenOutdoor Educator Expert Interview. 7 February 2020. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand as well to prevent a possible forest fire. Having water nearby also makes the job of extinguishing the fire quick and easy. If you don’t have water, you may also use dirt or sand to cover the embers. [12] X Expert Source Britt EdelenOutdoor Educator Expert Interview. 7 February 2020.
