Fire Starting

Step 1: Choose a Safe Location

• Locate an area clear of flammable materials like dry grass, leaves, or overhanging branches.
• Clear the ground within a 10-foot radius to create a safe zone.
• Find a spot sheltered from wind to prevent the fire from spreading uncontrollably.

Step 2: Gather Firewood

• Collect tinder, kindling, and firewood from the surroundings.
• Tinder: Dry materials like small twigs, leaves, or paper that catch fire easily.
• Kindling: Small sticks about the thickness of a pencil.
• Firewood: Larger pieces, as thick as an adult's wrist, preferably dry.

Step 3: Build the Fire

• Arrange the tinder in the center of your fire pit or chosen location.
• Construct a teepee or cone shape with kindling over the tinder, allowing for airflow.
• Surround the kindling with larger pieces of firewood in a log cabin or pyramid structure, ensuring proper ventilation.
• Consider building a windbreak with rocks or logs if it's windy.

Step 4: Light the Fire

• Ignite the tinder using matches or flint and steel to ignite the tinder by directing sparks onto it.
• Encourage flame growth by blowing gently on the fire.
• Gradually add more firewood once the tinder and kindling are burning steadily.

Step 5: Tend to the Fire

• Monitor the fire closely, adding more wood as needed to maintain a steady flame.
• Use a stick or fire poker to adjust burning logs and ensure even combustion.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby for quick extinguishing if necessary.

Step 6: Extinguish the Fire

• Allow the fire to burn down to hot coals before extinguishing.
• Pour water from the bucket over the flames, starting from the outside and moving inward.
• Stir the ashes and embers to thoroughly douse any remaining heat.
• Check for warmth in the ashes using the back of your hand.

Safety Tips

• Maintain vigilance over the fire at all times.
• Keep a safe distance to prevent burns.
• Supervise children and pets near the fire.
• Ensure complete extinguishment before leaving the area.