Campfire Safety

Cooking is Part of the Fun

Campfires are a very popular part of the camping experience,. Who doesn’t love to roast wieners and toast marshmallows. Never take this activity for granted and never forget that you are dealing with fire. To ensure everyone has fun be sure to check out the campfire safety tips below.

Safety First

We recently published a post to our blog on RV Fire Safety. You can read that here. That post included a brief mention of campfire safety but we wanted to provide a more in-depth look at this. We feel this information is pertinent right now based on a recent incident at the campground. One of our campers had an out-of-control campfire which spread to the trailer. We also lost trees before the fire department extinguished the blaze. We are very fortunate that they attended before the fire spread further.

Keep your campfire small and manageable.
Keep your fire small and manageable.
Take care when toasting marshmallows.

Campfire Safety Tips

  • Before you begin, make certain campfires are permitted. From time to time when conditions are dry our local governments will issue fire bans. If you are not sure, check with the office.
  • Don’t have a fire if there is wind. Depending on the type of wood you are using, campfires can generate a lot of sparks. If these are carried on the wind they are a hazard.
  • Use the metal fire pits which are provided for every campsite.
  • Make sure all dry leaves and grass, bushes and tree trunks are well clear.
  • Make sure any other flammable material, such as tents, tarps and clothing are also well clear
  • Have a large container of water or hose hand to keep your campfire under control.
  • Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start or revive a fire.
  • Keep a close eye on children and pets while the fire is burning.
  • Never leave your fire unattended.
  • Keep you fire small and under control.
  • It’s wise to let your fire burn down in preparation for putting it out.
  • At the end of the night make certain the fire is fully extinguished. Follow the safety rules – Soak it, stir and soak it again.
  • Stirring the fire after soaking will expose material that might still be burning. Repeat the process of more water and stirring until you can no longer see any smoke or steam.
  • You won’t be able to feel any heat emanating from the ashes when your fire is properly extinguished.