How to Deal with Campfire Safety

A great way to spend a summer night or two is by going camping with friends. If you are lucky enough to have good weather, you can enjoy a peaceful, relaxing time enjoying all that nature has to offer. When the night draws in, you will probably want to consider starting up a campfire, but there are numerous safety aspects that you need to be aware of when making such a fire.

Avoid Dry Brush

Obviously the ground needs to be dry in order for your campfire to even get going, but it is important that you avoid any overly dry areas – these can set alight incredibly quickly, and any uncontrolled fire can be absolutely disastrous and even fatal. Ensure that there are no loose twigs, leaves or branches near your campfire before you light it.

Tree Clearance

This can be often missed by campers, but it can also have a huge effect on the safety of your campsite and campfire. Before starting any fire, check around to see if there are any low hanging branches – if so, it is advisable to position your campfire in another area. It is recommended that you find an area with at least 5ft clearance overhead.

Laws and Rules

Not all woodland areas will allow campfires to be lit, so ensure that you are setting up camp in an area that permits such activity. Lighting campfires in areas that do not permit them is not only against the law; it can be hazardous to you, the environment and the wildlife that inhabits the area.

Fire Pits/Flammable Objects

Some pre-designated campsites may have fire pits in them – these help protect materials on the ground from being lit by any stray embers from the campfire. If you cannot find or make a fire ring or pit, then ensure that your campfire is at least 15 feet away from any flammable materials or objects such as tents or dry brush.

Extinguishing the Campfire

Extinguishing your campfire is not as simple as pouring some water on it and then leaving it alone. Once you have put water on the fire, use a stick to ‘stir’ the embers, and then pour water on it a second time. Ensure that it is cold to the touch before you leave, this will prevent it reigniting.

Here at City Fire Protection, fire safety is our absolute priority. We are a leading independent fire protection company, supplying, installing and maintaining of an array of fire safety equipment, from fire extinguishers to emergency lighting. For more information, get in touch with us today.