How to Extinguish a Campfire

It's getting late, the S'Mores are all gone, the campfire is just embers now--how to extinguish it so you can climb into your sleeping bag with peace of mind?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 

   Spread the embers out and douse them completely with water.

2. Feel around to make sure there are no hot embers lurking in there.

3. 

   Pound the charcoal into dust.

4. If this isn't an existing fire ring, then when there is not one tiny hot ember left, spread the ashes widely way from your camp or the trail.

5. 

   If you built a fire pit, fill it with topsoil, sand or gravel you dug out originally.

6. Scuff the area a bit to disguise the pit.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not leave trash behind in a fire ring, thinking the next campers will burn it for you--it may contain food residue and attract bears.
• Make sure you used enough water to douse the embers before sticking your hand in there to see if they're out.