Buzz
Building a bonfire is an enjoyable activity, but it can quickly turn dangerous if not done properly. Heath Korvola / Getty ImagesThere's something captivating about a cozy fire, which makes lighting one an enjoyable experience for everyone. Whether it's sharing spooky tales, singing campfire songs, or roasting hot dogs and baked potatoes, sitting around a bonfire brings people together. Wondering how to start a fire safely? You’re in the right place.
You might not have a log cabin, but you can bring that inviting warmth to any camping adventure or social gathering. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of starting a fire, and offer safety tips to keep things safe and fun. Ready to get cozy and warm? Let’s dive in!
How to Safely Use a Fire Pit
If you're imagining the need to rub two sticks together and blow gently to start a flame, you've been influenced by movies like Castaway. In reality, all you need is to gather dry wood and tinder in a safe spot and light the wood with a match. However, reaching that point requires careful planning and focus.
The first step is to pick a suitable location for your fire. Stay clear of flammable materials like dry grass, dead trees, or branches that could quickly catch fire. The area should be shielded from wind to avoid scattering sparks.
It’s also a good idea to create a clear boundary around your fire pit, using non-combustible materials such as large rocks, dirt, or stone. Before igniting the fire, make sure you have a reliable way to put it out, like a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Start Your Fire Safely and Responsibly
You might be tempted to use flammable liquids like gasoline or alcohol to start your fire, but this can lead to uncontrollable and dangerous flames. It’s much safer to use proper fire starters or small kindling instead.
Once the fire is burning, never leave it unattended. This is how wildfires start! Always keep an eye on children and pets around the fire to avoid accidents. Keep the fire size under control and avoid adding too much wood, as large fires can quickly spiral out of control.
When it’s time to put out the fire, make sure it’s completely extinguished, ensuring that the embers are cool to the touch to eliminate any risk of reigniting. Always prioritize safety when working with open flames.
Familiarize Yourself with Local Fire Regulations
Before you build a bonfire in your backyard, make sure to:
- Check if you need a permit to build a bonfire, and apply for one if required.
- Verify whether bonfires are allowed in your area, and if they are, during which times of the year.
- Reach out to your local fire department to learn if there are any special guidelines for outdoor fires and if they provide fire safety tips tailored to your area's landscaping [source: Ohio].
Checklist: Stones, Wood, and Ready-to-Use Tinder
Before you strike a match, some preparation is essential. Here's what you'll need for your bonfire:
- Bricks and/or stones
- A pile of tinder (dry sticks, pine needles, bark, newspaper, etc.)
- Kindling (larger sticks)
- Fuel (larger logs)
Opt for seasoned hardwood that has been properly dried or cured. Fresh, uncured wood produces more smoke, smaller flames, and less heat. Avoid using random burnable materials, as they might release harmful emissions or spark uncontrollable flames.
Starting a Fire: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are numerous methods to start a fire, ranging from using a steel striker to a magnifying glass. Some prefer techniques like the steel wool method or lighting dryer lint and cotton balls. However, we find that the natural methods are often the safest and most dependable.
Here’s how you can set up your bonfire:
- Form a circle using bricks or stones. For a permanent bonfire pit in your yard, you could dig a hole and surround it with bricks or stones [source: The Sunday Times]. This setup is called a fire ring.
- Place dry tinder in the center of the circle in a teepee shape.
- Construct a teepee of kindling around the tinder, leaving some space for air to flow.
- Place larger logs parallel to each other on two sides of the teepee.
- Repeat the process up to five layers, progressively building higher with each layer [Source: The Telegraph].
Once your bonfire is arranged, light a match and drop it into the center of the teepee (or place it into one of the gaps). Ensure the match touches the tinder inside the teepee. Always keep water nearby in case of emergency. Once you’re done, be sure to extinguish the fire completely before heading inside for the night.
Master the Art of Natural Fire Starting
Starting a small fire is an art form. You need just the right amount of heat for that cozy, crackling vibe, but be careful—too much fuel can make the fire too intense and uncomfortable.
By steering clear of dangers like dry grass and bad weather, you’ll earn the title of fire-building expert in your outdoor group with these essential skills!
