How To Start a Fire (and Put It Out Safely)

Fire is an essential element that brings warmth, cooks our food, and sets the scene for memorable outdoor gatherings. However, it is equally a force that demands respect and careful handling. Whether you’re sparking a campfire under the stars or lighting a fire pit in your backyard, knowing how to safely start and extinguish a fire is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps to enjoy a fire safely, ensuring you can relax and savor the moment without worry.

How To Start a Fire Safely

Choose the Right Location

Finding a safe location for your fire is the first step. Adhere to local regulations regarding open fires and select a spot well away from flammable materials such as dry leaves, overhanging branches, or wooden structures. An ideal location is clear, flat, and sheltered from the wind.

Gather Firewood

Efficient burning requires three types of wood: tinder, kindling, and fuel wood. Tinder includes small, dry materials that catch fire easily like dry leaves, pine needles, or paper. Kindling consists of small sticks and twigs that will catch fire from the tinder and help larger logs to ignite. Fuel wood, the largest pieces, sustains the fire for a longer duration. Ensure all materials are dry to minimize smoke production.

Prepare the Fire Pit or Fire Ring

If using an existing fire pit or a fire ring, clear out any leftover ash or debris before starting a new fire. If you need to create one, encircle the area with rocks or a metal ring to contain the fire safely. This barrier helps prevent the fire from spreading.

Build the Fire

Start by placing your tinder in the center of the pit. Build a teepee of kindling around the tinder, allowing for good airflow which is crucial for the fire to breathe. Finally, arrange your fuel wood around the kindling. You can stack the larger logs in a teepee or a log cabin formation, ensuring there is enough space between them for air to circulate.

Ignite the Fire

Light the tinder using matches or a lighter, avoiding flammable liquids like gasoline which can create dangerous flare-ups. Light the tinder from several sides to ensure an even burn.

Maintain and Monitor the Fire

Keep adding fuel wood as needed to maintain your fire, but always keep it at a manageable size. Never leave your fire unattended, and keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case you need to control or extinguish it quickly.

How to Put Out a Fire Safely

Allow the Fire to Burn Down

When you’re ready to extinguish the fire, stop adding wood and let it burn down to ash as much as possible.

Drown the Fire With Water

Thoroughly soak the fire with water, making sure to douse all embers, not just the red ones. Begin at the perimeter and move toward the center, being cautious of hot steam that can rise.

Stir and Douse With Water Again

Stir the ashes with a shovel or a stick to uncover any remaining embers or hot spots, and soak them with more water. Repeat until you see no more steam or smoking embers.

Feel for Heat

Carefully feel near the ashes with the back of your hand without touching them. If any heat is still emanating, it means the fire isn’t fully extinguished. Continue to douse and stir until the area is completely cool.

Properly Dispose of Ashes

Once the fire pit is cool, safely dispose of the ashes. Transfer them to a metal container and ensure they are fully extinguished before disposal.