How to Make Fire Gel

Still pushing onward and upward from the days of rubbing two sticks together, we continue to look for quicker and easier ways to start a fire. You can always cheat by using gasoline, but there's a safer and cleaner way of cheating.

Things You'll Need

• 6 cotton balls
• Petroleum jelly
• Film canister or empty and washed petroleum jelly container

Instructions

1. Rub petroleum jelly all over the cotton balls.

2. Place cotton balls in strategic areas throughout the wood.

3. Light the cotton balls on fire.

4. Store remaining cotton balls in the canister or container for compact, mess-free travel.

Tips & Warnings

• Make several cotton ball starters at once and store in an airtight container of some sort for later use. Using large cotton balls will give the fire a longer chance to take to the wood. Proper wood buildup is essential for this method to work. Follow normal protocol for making fires by starting with smaller sticks and twigs before layering with logs.

References

• Campfire Dude