Whether you’re camping on the beaches of Salida del Sol or in the woods near Whispering River, a campfire provides the centerpiece for the experience. While beautiful, campfires are also dangerous and require care and planning to avoid harm.

• Check local conditions and regulations before starting a campfire.
• Start campfires only in a solid, well-maintained designated area meant for campfires, such as a fire pit or fire ring, at least eight to ten feet away from combustibles like dry grass, tents, and camping gear.
• Start your campfire safely: never use flammable liquids (such as gasoline, diesel, keronsene, or lighter fluid) to ignite or keep your fire burning.
• Avoid starting fires beneath low, overhanging branches; fires often reach higher than expected.
• Stack fireword at a safe distance and upwind from the fire.
• Keep your fire small and sheltered from the wind.
• Watch for and extinguish flying sparks.
• Keep water and a shovel near your campfire.
• Don’t run near the fire.
• Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling objects that might ignite if tending the fire.
• Never leave your campfire unattended.
• Extinguish your campfire by soaking the fire with water, stirring the embers, and soaking again until nothing glows. Check around and under stones for hidden embers.
• Wait 30 to 45 minutes and feel for warmth near unconsumed wood and ashes. If warm, soak the area, check for burning embers, and cover with dirt.

Topics from the Safety Council

• Candle Safety
• Computer Safety
• Fireplace Safety
• Snow Shoveling Tips