There’s nothing quite like a crackling campfire under the stars. It’s where stories are shared, meals are cooked, and warmth is found after a long day on the trail. But without proper precautions, a simple campfire can quickly become a hazard—to you, your fellow campers, and the environment.
Every year, thousands of wildfires are caused by unattended or improperly extinguished campfires. Countless injuries result from carelessness around open flames, and wildlife often suffers from human oversight. The good news? With a little knowledge and responsibility, you can enjoy your fire safely while minimizing its impact.
Choosing the Right Spot for a Safe Fire
Before striking that first match, take a moment to evaluate where you’re building your fire. Not all locations are safe or legal for an open flame. Follow these guidelines to pick the best spot:
• Use designated fire rings when available—these are designed to contain flames and prevent accidental spreading.
• Keep fires at least 15 feet away from tents, low-hanging branches, dry grass, or other flammable materials.
• Avoid windy conditions, as gusts can carry embers and ignite unintended areas.
• Check local fire restrictions—in drought-prone areas, even a small fire can become a disaster.
Building & Maintaining a Responsible Fire
Once you’ve found a safe spot, it’s time to build your fire. A well-structured fire is easier to control and less likely to cause accidents.
• Keep it small—a fire no bigger than necessary is easier to manage.
• Use only local firewood to prevent spreading invasive pests or diseases. If firewood isn’t available, use dead, downed wood no bigger than your wrist.
• Never use accelerants like gasoline, lighter fluid, or alcohol—these can cause flare-ups and uncontrollable flames.
• Keep a water source or shovel nearby to douse flames if needed.
When it’s time to turn in for the night, never leave a fire unattended—not even for a few minutes. Fires can reignite unexpectedly or be spread by wind.
How to Properly Extinguish Your Campfire
A campfire isn’t truly “out” until it’s cool to the touch. Follow these steps to ensure your fire is completely extinguished:
1. Drown the fire with water—pour slowly and evenly over the embers.
2. Stir the ashes with a stick or shovel to expose any hidden embers.
3. Add more water until you hear no hissing sounds.
4. Check for remaining heat—hold your hand close to the ashes (without touching). If it’s still warm, repeat the process.
If water isn’t available, dirt or sand can be used, but it must be thoroughly mixed into the embers to smother them. Never bury a fire—it can smolder underground and reignite later.
Preventing Injuries Around the Campfire
Even when a fire is contained, accidents happen. Here’s how to keep yourself and others safe:
• Teach kids and pets to stay at least three feet away from the fire.
• Never wear loose clothing near an open flame—long sleeves and synthetic fabrics can catch fire quickly.
• Use proper cooking tools like long-handled utensils to avoid burns.
• Keep a first-aid kit nearby, including burn cream and bandages, in case of minor injuries.
If someone gets burned, cool the area immediately with clean water (never ice) and seek medical help if necessary.
The Hidden Impact of Campfires on Wildlife
Campfires don’t just affect campers—they can also disturb local wildlife. Animals are naturally drawn to the smell of food and leftover scraps. When they become accustomed to human food, they may lose their natural foraging instincts or become aggressive.
To keep wildlife safe:
• Dispose of food scraps properly—never throw leftovers into the fire or surrounding area.
• Store food securely in bear-proof containers or hung from a tree when camping in bear country.
• Clean up thoroughly—ashes and leftover food can attract animals long after you’ve left.
Even the ashes from your fire can impact the environment. Wood ash can alter soil chemistry, making it difficult for native plants to grow. Always scatter cooled ashes away from water sources and avoid dumping large piles in one place.
A campfire is one of the best parts of camping, but it comes with responsibility. By choosing a safe location, maintaining control of your fire, properly extinguishing it, and being mindful of wildlife, you can help ensure that your outdoor adventure is both enjoyable and safe.
So go ahead—enjoy the warmth, roast those marshmallows, and tell your best ghost stories. Just remember: a safe campfire is a good campfire.
