There's something really magical about gathering around a campfire, exchanging stories and feeling mesmerised by the flickering flames. If you are lucky, one of your friends may have even brought some marshmallows for toasting!
Here at SÆR we take fire safety and sustainability very seriously, so we'd like to offer some guidance to help you achieve a safe and eco-friendly campfire experience.
We have compiled a list of ten tips to help prioritise safety and minimise the environmental impact when lighting a fire.
1. Find the Perfect Campfire Location:
Choose wisely, preferably in a dry area with ample space. This ensures the fire can be contained safely without posing a risk to surrounding vegetation. You will also want to ensure there is enough distance for your seating arrangement. You can't move the fire once lit!
2. Respect Wildlife and Vegetation:
Avoid setting up your campfire in areas that could harm wildlife or damage fragile vegetation. Be mindful of local ecosystems and choose a location that minimises disruption to the natural surroundings. Ambers can travel quickly with a gust of wind in the wrong direction - you don't want to set light to any surrounding grass or overhanging trees.
3. Check Fire Regulations and Guidelines:
Research and adhere to any fire regulations and guidelines in the area before lighting a campfire. Some regions have specific rules during certain seasons to prevent wildfires and protect sensitive environments. Familiarise yourself with these regulations for a safe and eco-friendly experience.
4. Utilise Existing Fire Rings or Pits:
Whenever possible, use established fire rings or pits provided by the campsite. These designated areas are designed to contain the fire and minimise its impact on the surrounding environment. You can also create your own by digging a hole or gathering large rocks to help contain the fire.
5. Gather Dry and Sustainable Firewood:
Collect fallen branches and deadwood found near your campsite for firewood. Avoid cutting live trees or damaging living vegetation. By using dry and sustainable firewood, you minimise the environmental impact and preserve the natural balance of the ecosystem.
6. Consider Weather Conditions:
Take into account the current weather conditions before lighting your campfire. Avoid starting a fire during strong winds or dry periods, as this increases the risk of accidental wildfires. Choose a calm day with moderate humidity for a safer and more controlled fire. Watch out for those rain showers too! That would be a very miserable campfire experience!
7. Build a Safe and Controlled Fire Shape:
When arranging the firewood, consider what shape is best for your space. The most popular campfire shape is the star. It uses whole, un-split logs or branches and burns them slowly at the ends. This helps to create a long-lasting and efficient fire. Build a teepee over the star leaving enough space between the logs to allow airflow. Remember to keep wood spare to either help you adjust or add to the fire.
8. Use Eco-Friendly Fire Starters:
Choose natural and eco-friendly fire starters, such as dry leaves, pine needles, or newspaper. Avoid using chemical-based accelerants, as they can harm the environment. These natural alternatives ignite easily and help you maintain an eco-friendly campfire.
9. Never Leave the Campfire Unattended:
Ensure that a responsible adult is present near the campfire at all times. Never leave a campfire unattended, as it poses a risk of spreading and can lead to accidents. Consider having a bucket of water, sand or a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
10. How to Put Out a Campfire:
Before leaving your campsite or going to bed, extinguish the fire thoroughly. Pour water over the fire, making sure to douse all embers and coals. Stir the ashes to ensure complete extinguishment, and repeat the process until the fire is cold to the touch. Finally, bury the fire remains with soil or sand to further ensure no embers remain active. This step helps prevent accidental wildfires and leaves no trace of the campfire.
By following these ten eco-friendly tips, you can enjoy the warmth and beauty of a campfire whilst remaining safe. Responsible campfire practices preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings.
Remember to leave your campsite as you found it, leaving no trace behind.
Alternatively, if you love the scent and flicker of flames, why not try our hand-poured soy wax campfire candle
