How to Build the Perfect Fire “I am the Fire starter” How to Build the Perfect Fire

Location Make sure to light fires in designated fire pits If not choose a location that is 1. Upwind from shelter 2. Away from overhanging branches or canopy 3. On rocky, non-flammable surface

Safety Make sure that - surface is level (pit is surrounded by rocks etc) - you have water in a container nearby - you control its size and embers - FULLY EXTINGUISH before leaving

Regulations, Conditions and Permits Be knowledgeable and aware of local forest fire regulations. Do you need a permit? Are there designated only places that you can light a fire? What are the conditions? Dry – High risk Moist – Low risk

The Fire Triangle All fires need oxygen, fuel and heat Fuel – What you are burning Oxygen - Wind or circulation Heat – Lighter, matches, flint etc

Preparation 1- Tinder Collect Tinder Smallest, driest most flammable stuff you can find Dead pine needles, dead grass, tiny twigs, birch bark Smaller than your pinky finger

Preparation 2 - Kindling Collect Kindling Kindling is wood that has a small circumference Wood that has been split, narrow trunk pieces or branches Thicker than your finger – no thicker than your wrist

Preparation 3 - Firewood The best firewood is dry and cured (not green or rotted) Do not cut down living trees for firewood Gather more then you think you need Cut to pieces that will fit in your pit

Fire-building After wood is gathered light tinder. (out of wind but close to or in structure) Begin or continue building structure. Kindling first then firewood. Don’t get too excited! Be patient!

Fire-building – 2 types Log Cabin Tinder and kindling in center Firewood piled like a log cabin. Alternating directions

Fire-building – 2 types Teepee Kindling and tinder in center Balance firewood leaning against each other like a teepee