Campfire, Cookout Care

Campfire, Cookout Care

Nothing says “outdoors” like the glow and smoke of a flickering campfire, and as summer nears, state parks and national forests fill with nature lovers who want that outdoor experience. But well-meaning campers and picnickers have destroyed millions of acres of forests with campfire carelessness.

From 1987 to 1997, people ignited an average of 102,694 wild fires, burning nearly 2 million acres, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Whether you’re cooking by campfire, charcoal grill, propane camp stove, or other means, safety is imperative, says Craig Warren, of the Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Organization.

First, determine whether fires are permitted. “Rules vary depending on where you’re camping and what season it is,” Warren says. “Make sure you follow the local regulations whenever you light a fire.” For example, charcoal grills are not always permitted; you may be required to bring firewood rather than gather it near camp; and some campsites require a shovel, extra water, and a fire extinguisher.

If the fire pit has no metal fire ring, circle it with rocks and clear a 10-foot area down to the soil, advises the National Park Service. Stack extra firewood upwind and away from the fire.

Most campers clear the immediate area of ground-level flammables, but many neglect to look up, Warren says. Heat and cinders can ignite overhanging branches with dangerous speed, so place your fire away from overhead branches.

Build small fires with flames about a foot high, Warren recommends. They generate fewer flying cinders, are less susceptible to wind, and are easier to put out.

Warren strongly discourages feeding a long log into a fire a little at a time. “No matter how much you try to drown the leftover log with water, chances are it’ll still be smoldering after you leave,” he cautions.

Never leave a fire unattended; even a small breeze could quickly cause it to spread. Bring a hand-held fire extinguisher along just to be safe.

Extinguish campfires and charcoal fires by drowning all embers, coals, and sticks. Move campfire rocks to ensure that burning embers aren’t underneath. Stir, add more water, and stir again. Don’t bury coals, because they could smolder and re-ignite.

If a fire causes trouble, call for help immediately, even if you think you can control it. Well-meaning campers trying to fight small fires alone often accidentally create greater danger for themselves and nature.

Ed Fortson is a Colorado-based freelance writer who loves the outdoors.

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