During the summer, fires can be a fun way of socializing with family and friends or to dispose of brush and other unwanted materials. If not treated properly, these fires can get out of hand and cause more damage than good. The United States Forest Service has some tips as to how to build and maintain a fire without compromising the fun.
Have a Safe Campfire Location
Be aware of the area around the fire site. Things such as tree branches, gas lines, overhangs, and other structures can get caught in the fire’s air space and quickly let the fire spread to the surrounding area. It is also important to be aware of campfire bans, which limit fires to approved areas to prevent grass and other types of fires during dry spells.
Keeping water, dirt or sand, and a rake close to the site is also important to extinguish the fire. This helps when embers or debris fall out of the fire ring or pit and start to burn grass or surrounding objects, but are also essential if the fire becomes too big to handle or becomes a threat to the surrounding area.
Also be aware of local and state ordinances regarding what can be disposed of and/or burned in a fire. In addition to not encouraging the burning of batteries, aerosol cans and other explosives, some areas have rules as to what kinds of materials can be used in a fire.
Putting Out the Flames
When putting out a fire, it is important to make sure that all of the flames are extinguished. Just because the flames are gone does not mean that the fire is out and, if not properly extinguished, can restart soon after the site is abandoned.
Pour water or dirt onto the ashes, stirring as you go to make sure that all of the embers are doused. Do not bury any remains from the fire; the heat from the remains can cause the fire to relight and spread quickly, depending on what is in the surrounding area.
Second, make sure that the area under rocks or bricks is extinguished. These structural materials can hold heat as well, and sometimes twigs, leaves, or other debris can get stuck under them and ignite as well. Use caution when moving bricks or rocks from a fire site – they can also be hot.
Finally, keep adding water or dirt until the fire is completely extinguished and the remains are cool to the touch. This ensures that the heat from the fire has been reduced and will not catch anything in the surrounding area on fire or reignite the previous fire. Check the surrounding area for anything that could be burning, such as tree roots or branches, grass, or physical structures.
While fires can be fun and practical, it is important to remember safety precautions and consider the surrounding area before striking a match. If not, an otherwise fun event could quickly become hazardous to everyone involved.
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