fire-pyre

[fire-pyre]

Best Way to Start a Fire?

Camping is a fun and (somewhat) easy way to enjoy the outdoors. The most important part of the experience? Securing heat, warmth, and light through a cozy campfire. Not only does this fire provide safety and warmth, it also can be used as a source for food and fuel. There's usually someone in the group or duo that can whip one up given the resources. But what if you take a trip an nobody has had experience? Where does one begin?

I think first and foremost, wherever you end up picking your camp site to be, make sure it is safe and allowed to build a fire. To note, some states, including Ohio, enact a fire ban in order to minimize the likelihood of a wildfire during certain seasons. I learned that the hard way while camping in Colorado during September without checking the state's fire ban status. Don't be like me!

There are different ways to construct a fire and the elements and situation vary. Personally, I like to build a fire by making my base mimic a Lincoln-log style. First, I start by layering kindling, mostly dry sticks and leaves on the bottom. Then, I add larger sticks but they're generally smaller than a piece of wood but larger than a twig. Following the start of my base, I add two small pieces of wood (these are the largest of the timber, but shouldn't be full logs). I lay the pieces two by tow, beginnning the stack with two pieces vertical, followed by two pieces horizontal on top. I do this for about two to three layers until I feel there is enough tinder. However, I keep in mind to not place them too close together, in order to encourage airflow. Once I have my wood stacked, I pepper in the paper. I ball up small pieces of non-colored newspaper. I strategically place them all over the stack so that all corners can become aflame. It's also a good bet to make sure the paper congregated mostly at the bottom of the stack, as that is where the flame will catch and spread. If you find yourself struggling with this aspect, you can use a cheat sheet but packing and using dryer lint. Dryer lint is extremely flammable and will help with the acceleration of the flame. This is why it's important to clean the lint from your dryer! It can quickly become a fire hazard for your household.

There are a few factors that can influence the successful start of a fire. You should definitely have dry, seasoned wood. It becomes difficult to catch if your wood is wet or damp. The wood pieces also shouldn't be too large. The bigger they are, the longer they take to come alight. You also want to make sure there is enough oxygen circulating, as oxygen fuels fire. If your base build is too tight, packed, and condense, the air wont flow which will lead to a stagnant and eventually extinguished flame.

There is no one correct way to start or construct a fire, given all situations are unique. After reading this, I hope you're able to safely and confidently build a fire. Whether it be for a tailgate, camping, survival, or fun, it's always important to have fire knowledge and security. If necessary, do some trial runs, see how they turn out!

#fire #woods #pyre #camping #outdoors #survivalist #activity #backpacking #self help #skills #experience #hiking #nature #birch trees #safety #blog #tumblr #flame #ignite #fun #adventure #tailgate #bonfire