Camp Fires

What is camping without a campfire? The smell of burning logs, the social gatherings, the story telling. When fires are permitted, it usually makes the whole camping trip worth it. Most campfires are made either at the crack of dawn, or just as the sun is setting. Just how do you make a proper campfire? Most campsites already provide a ring or a pit as they call it. This allows you to know exactly where your fire will be for the duration of your stay. If you are not staying in a camp facility where there is not a designated ring or pit, you will have to make your own, and you must ensure you follow some strict rules. Know the fire restrictions in your area. Here in Arizona we have a lot of them and for a good reason. It is HOT and Dry. If Smokey The Bear says "NO FIRES" he means it. If you have the A- okay here are some good tips to follow:



Never allow children to run around an open fire. Never let a child feed the fire with wood. They should only be allowed near a campfire with a responsible adult.

Gather only wood you see on the ground. Don't chop down the nearest tree, as fresh wood is harder to burn, and it's illegal.

You can also buy store bought wood, which usually costs about $5 a bundle, and last only about an hour, so I suggest you stock up.

Gather bark, pine needles, and small pieces of wood which are already on the ground, as this makes great kindling. You can also use good ole fashioned newspaper.

Make sure you have all the wood you need, so you don't start the fire and leave it unattended, why your out looking for more wood.

When building your fire, make sure you are about 6-8 feet away from any hanging branches, twigs, trees, leaves, and flammable things such as propane, or gasoline.

Make sure you have a supply of water by your fire, in case it starts to get out of control.

Have a camp shovel and Axe, or even a chainsaw.

Place kenneling in your pit tee pee style. This will allow air flow up the middle. Once you have this going, then gradually add larger pieces of wood until your fire reaches a safe burn.

Don't throw anything into the fire, that gives off toxins such as plastic and Styrofoam.

If the fire is out of control and you cannot get a handle on it, "DON'T PANIC". Try to put it out, or call or drive for help. It's a good idea to know exactly where your camped, in case you have to call for help. If you panic, you might not be able to tell the person on the other line where your at.

Completely put the fire out before going to bed. You can pour water or dirt, or both on it. If you still hear the fire crackle, it's not out.

When you are leaving, make sure that the cleanup process also involves removing any garbage you left in the fire pit.

Please be responsible when it comes to campfires. As Smokey The Bear says, "Only you can prevent forest fires".