Camping Fun Shop
57 N Prospect St
Norwalk, Ohio 44857
1-800-371-9319
OUTDOOR FIRE SAFETY
The camp fire is always one of the favorite attractions at any camping event. It can also be the most dangerous if proper care isn't used. As a public service, we have put this page here on our site to remind everyone of the outdoor fire safety codes and rules that must be followed in order to help protect your loved ones as well as wildlife and vegetation in the great outdoors. Following these outdoor fire safety rules and tips can prevent your good time at the campsite from turning into a tragedy. Be safe!
General Outdoor Fire Safety Rules
The rules for fire safety in general are pretty basic for any type of fire. Many folks have never built a campfire, and there are others who use dangerous methods to start them. Although there are several safe ways to start a campfire (or bonfire), we recommend using KindleMagic for starting fires. It is safe, fast, effective, and best of all, very easy to use. Whatever method you prefer to use, keep safety in mind at all times!
Always remember....in case of an actual or suspected fire, get everyone to safety before calling for help or attempting to extinguish the flames. Fires spread very fast!
Campfire Safety
Follow all local, state and federal fire laws and ordinances. Have a permit if it is required.
If a fire ring isn't provided, choose a safe location to build your fire, at least 10 ft. from trees & undergrowth.
NEVER start a fire in a strong wind.
Pitch your tent at least 15 feet from your campfire, away from wind direction.
Supervise children AT ALL TIMES when camp fires are burning or being ignited.
When near campfires, wear snug fitting, tightly woven, clothing. Short sleeves are recommended.
Make sure everyone knows how to put out a clothing fire - STOP, DROP and ROLL.
Keep a fire extinguisher, shovel, and a large container of water available (close to the fire) at all times.
Maintain at least a three-foot clear area, free of leaves, dry grass, pine needles, etc., around the fire.
Store extra firewood at least 6 feet away from the burning fire.
Never freshen a dying fire with a liquid starter. Explosions can result. (KindleMagic works great for this)
Keep your campfire small. If you try to build the world's largest fire, you might actually succeed!
Putting Your Campfire Out
This is the most important part of any outdoor fire. Always be certain that fires and coals are out COLD DEAD before leaving your campsite or going to sleep in your tent. To put your campfire out, begin by letting your campfire burn down. Then, drown the fire with water. Make sure all embers, coals, and sticks are wet. Move rocks---there may be burning embers underneath. Mix and stir the remains with dirt and water; then add more water and dirt, and stir again. Be sure all burned material has been extinguished and cooled. If you do not have water, use dirt. Mix enough soil or sand with the embers. Continue adding and stirring until all material is cool. Feel all materials with your bare hand. Make sure that no roots are burning. Do not bury your coals---they can smolder and break out into a wildfire!
Bonfire Safety
Bonfires are a lot of fun, but are NOT RECOMMENDED for most camp sites. They can be downright deadly if there is no organization, teamwork, emergency planning, and if outdoor fire safety rules are not strictly adhered to. Let's not forget the bonfire tragedy that killed 12 students at Texas A&M's annual bonfire in November of 1999. Even those experienced in handling fires can run into trouble, as was the case for two firefighters in upstate New York who lost their lives in a bonfire lighting accident just a few years ago.
When building a bonfire, ALL outdoor fire safety codes must be followed. In many cases, a special permit is required. A bonfire should never be built anywhere close to anything flammable. A wide, open space is a must, and should be clear of any overhead dangers such as wires, tree limbs, etc. A bonfire should never be the sole responsibility of one person. Emergency plans should be laid out ahead of time and persons assigned to specific tasks if things should get out of control. It should be decided ahead of time what will be burned in the bonfire, and who will be in charge of the fire once it is lit. NEVER allow bonfire guests to throw things into the fire. And always make certain that the fire is out COLD DEAD before leaving the bonfire area.
Grill & Lantern Fire Safety
Handle flammable liquids with care.
Store flammable liquids only in metal containers, preferably safety cans.
Store all flammable liquids at a safe distance from your tent, camper, or any source of heat/open flame.
Use flammable liquids only for their intended purpose - NOT to start a fire.
Fill lanterns and stoves a safe distance from campfires, grills and other sources of heat/open flame.
Use a funnel when pouring flammable liquids, and clean up any spills immediately.
Carry only a minimal amount of flammable liquids, and make sure all caps are tight.
Handle tanks of compressed flammable gas with caution. Follow the precautions indicated on the tank.
Use only the recommended fuel for lanterns, stoves, etc. Do NOT use gasoline.
Consider purchasing lantern fuel at or near your destination, to reduce the risk of fire while traveling.
Make sure the barbecue stand is level and steady. Keep a water container nearby when the coal is burning.
When cooking is over, soak the coals to prevent their re-ignition.
Never keep damp or wet charcoal in an unventilated area. Drying may cause spontaneous combustion.
Avoid using fuel lanterns and stoves inside your tent.
Tent Fire Safety
Read the labels before purchasing a tent. Buy only a flame-resistant tent.
Pitch your tent at least 15 feet from your campfire, away from wind direction.
Take along a battery powered smoke detector to keep inside each tent.
Have an escape plan, and be prepared to cut your way out of the tent if a fire occurs.
Use only battery-operated lights in or near tents and campers.
Keep a fire extinguisher or container of water available at all times.
Maintain at least a 3 foot clear area, free of leaves, dry grass, pine needles, etc., around tents.
Never use candles, matches, or fuel lanterns in or near a tent; use a flashlight.
Extra care should be excised when using electricity and lighting in or near a tent.
When using heaters, keep them away from walls, pillows, camping chairs, and other contents of the tent.
Do not attempt to use a fire inside your tent for warmth.
Camper/RV Fire Safety
Be sure you have a battery powered smoke detector inside your camper or trailer.
Use only electrically operated lights in trailers.
Keep cooking and heating equipment in safe operating condition. Inspect before each outing.
Check and maintain gas connections and fume vents.
Keep combustibles away from cooking and heating equipment.
Have a fire extinguisher available at all times. Keep it by the camper/trailer exit door.
Develop a fire escape plan with your family.
Extinguish all smoking materials before going to bed, and soak with water.
Always remember....in case of an actual or suspected fire, get everyone to safety before calling for help or attempting to extinguish the flames. Fires spread very fast!