Building a proper campfire

Fire has been around since the dawn of time. Early man had the capacity to make fire and since that time it has been a wonder to us all. Knowing how to build a fire and basic fire safety is key for any camper or backpacker.

Fire is a lifesaver but if not used properly can be a lifetaker. This theory applies especially to the wilderness and camping. If fire gets out of control in wilderness areas the devastation and impact on the environment can last for decades.

In order to build a safe and effective fire in any wilderness area you must search out your spot for your fire. Try to use an area that has already been used for a campfire. You will be able to tell where someone has built their fire previously due to the ashen and scorched area of the fire and also there will be a fire ring in place.

Keep your fire small. These days a large fire in any wilderness area frowned upon. Large fires take more fuel to generate which means you will be using more wood. Large fires can also easily become out of control. Keep it small and to a minimum.By doing this not only can you save disaster from happening but other campers in the area will not become annoyed by the large fire.

When starting your fire try to utilize a fire ring which has been previously used. Re-using these fire rings lessen the effects on the environment and make your job easier in the process. Usually some minor reconstruction must occur but even this is easier than beginning one from scratch.

Now that your fire ring has been established it is necessary to collect your kindling and materials that will be used for your fire.

For small fires it is best to collect pine needles and small twigs for your starting materials. Look at the bases of pine trees because this material is usually dry and easy to burn. By looking at the bases of large trees for these materials they have been sheltered from rains and dampness which would make these materials other wise unable to burn if damp.

Once you have gathered these materials start off with a small handful of pine needles. These pine needles should be broken in small pieces and placed in the center of the fire ring. Once you have placed the pine needles in the center you should then begin to build a pyramid of small match sized twigs over the top of the pine needles. Remember do not try to compact your base materials because you must leave them loose to allow for proper air passage. Any fire requires oxygen and by leaving materials loose this allows for oxygen to pass through the materials and ensure a good fire.

To light your fire, light the pine needles you have placed on the ground first. Allow the flame ignite the materials fully before proceeding. Once the small twigs in the pyramid have caught, start applying pencil sized twigs to the fire. If the fire looks like it is smoking, or beginning to die, give oxygen to the base by blowing across the base. Never blow directly down on the fire because the fire will go out if you blow directly downward.As the fire begins to take off keep applying more twigs and materials to keep your fire going as long as necessary.

Gradually you will then be able to place larger wood, such as a small log into the fire ring and this will keep your fire going for a longer period without tending.The goal of this fire building is to make heat for keeping warm and cooking.

Do not burn all pine needles. Use these only for a firestarter because they cause sparks and will leave large ammounts of debris and ash after they burn. Also avoid using bark. Bark has a tendency to pop and send sparks out of the firering. This can cause a serious blaze because the sparks are uncontrollable.

To ensure a successful estinguish of your fire you must first separate the materials you have used in your fire ring. Using a large stick,spread your fire out. Gradually introduce water into the fire ring. Be careful of the hot steam coming off the fire ring because this can cause a serious burn to your skin. Then begin to stir the fire with your stick letting the water penetrate all the materials. Add as much water as needed to ensure the fire is out.

Be sure to check under the rocks in the fire ring. Many times one small ember has continued on and caused a serious fire in the wilderness. Turn over each and every rock carefully. Once the rocks have been turned over pour water to the area under the placement of the rocks. Stir this again until you are satisfied that the fire is completely estinguished.

Once your fire is out any materials you have left over should be returned to where they were found. This will tidy up your camping area. You must always focus on leaving the area the way you found it when you entered it.

Fire is a very useful tool when used correctly.

Fire used haphazardly can cause not only damage but death. It creates death to animals, people, and an environment that took billions of years to create and none of these things can ever be replaced.