campfires

CAMPFIRES

What would a camping trip be without a campfire? Most of our weekends have the traditional campfire and many of our members take great joy and pride in the creation of a campfire. Here are some tips and ideas on building a successful campfire:

1) Start with DRY kindling, small twigs and such.
2) Firestarters, paper, etc help get it started. DO NOT USE LEAVES - too smokey.
3) A common & easy form is to use the TEEPEE method. Start with a few strong branches forming a frame for a teepee.
4) Fill the center and edges with paper or other fire starter.
5) Build up the fire using small twigs, dry bark, shavings, etc.
6) Make sure you do not smother the fire! Leave room for air to feed the fire.
7) Save the larger wood to feed to the fire once it gets going.
8) Use logs last to maintain the fire.
9) Don't add too many logs too fast or you smother the fire or grow it too fast causing you to have to move back.

PLEASE, don't throw metal, glass, or other items which do not burn into a fire.
Also, plastic puts toxic fumes and chemicals into the air - PLEASE DO NOT BURN PLASTICS OR STYROFOAM.
Fuels such as light fluid, gas, etc. should not be used to start a fire. Serious injury or explosions can result.

Remember that fire is destructive if not controlled. Make sure that fires are
permitted in your campsite, and follow the safety guidelines below.
Many areas do not permit use of fallen trees and branches. Check before using
any fallen wood that its use is permitted. Use as little gathered wood as possible.
Consider bringing in your own firewood. Use the driest, least green materials available.

CAMPFIRE RULES OF SAFETY:

1. Dig a pit away from overhanging branches or use pit provided.
2. Circle the pit with rocks.
3. Clear a 5 foot area around the pit down to the soil. (rack)
4. Stack extra wood upwind and away from the/any fire.
5. After lighting, do not discard the match until cold.
6. Never leave a campfire unattended.
7. Keep a bucket of water and shovel nearby.

For detailed "how-to" instructions check out this site!