How to Build a Campfire, Not a Forest Fire

The safest way to build a campfire with setting the forest on fire too!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Matches
• Tender
• Kinling
• Fuel

1. Post Falls, Idaho by Sherrie Taylor You'll want to build your campfire in the safest and smartest way possible. This is to insure you do not set the rest of the forest or yourself on fire. First you must choose a safe area.
   Clear grass and other flammable items in a six foot circle. Make sure you do not have overhanging limbs from nearby trees that could catch fire.
2. In the center of the circle scoop out a one foot circle about 4 inches deep. This is where you will contain your small fire. It only needs to be big enough to warm by, see by and cook over. You can place rocks around the circle providing you with a small barrier and a place to set cooking utensils.
3. In the center of the small circle you will need to place your first item which is your tender. Tender is the very small and dry item that will catch fire easily. You can use dry grasses, rolled paper balls or even dryer lint. Pile your tender together about 2 inches high.
4. On top of the tender you will place your kindling. Kindling is a will burn longer than your tender. It needs to be a little stronger and thicker. You small limbs or branches about the size of your thumb. Place them in a teepee or pyramid about 3 inches high over the tender. The tender will light first and then will move to the kin ling for a longer burning flame.
5. Next you add the fuel. Fuel is your main burning source for your fire. use thicker limbs and branches, but make sure they are still contained within the small circle. Place them over the kindling the same way you placed the kindling over the tender. In a teepee or pyramid formation.
6. You are now ready to light your campfire. Hold your match close and low to the ground to protect from wind. Light the tender first from a small opening left for such purpose. Once the tender is burning continue to feed it more tender until the kindling catches.
7. Continue to add small amounts of tender and kindling carefully until the fuels catches. Continue to add kindling as your fire builds. Once it is burning only add the larger pieces of fuel to keep it going, not to increase it's size. This is how you build a good campfire without setting a forest fire.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep matches dry by carrying in a zip lock bag.
• Bring a small amount of tender from home for emergency use.
• Keep your fire under control and make sure it is completely out before leaving the area.
• Be responsible.
• Do not use a campfire during very dry seasons.
• Do not hold your face over the fuel when you begin to light the tender!
• Keep your campfire contained and controlled at all times.
• Never ever leave a campfire unattended.