As the summer heat dwindles and gives way to autumn’s chilly breezes, many of us still embrace the opportunity to spend time outdoors. Whether spending a weekend camping or just a few hours grilling in the backyard, it’s helpful to build a fire to keep warm, accentuated by the crackling flames and golden glow, providing a beautiful centerpiece to any outdoor adventure. Of course, building a successful, yet well-contained fire outdoors is not as simple as flipping a switch; you need to gather materials in a way that doesn’t harm the natural environment and be aware of its impact on the area.
In the most common fire-building method, matches are used. First, select a site that is dry and sheltered from wind. Remove debris from around the perimeter of the site as a precaution against the blaze becoming out of control. Gather dry tinder- easily ignitable substances such as paper, grass, bark, or leaves. Rubbing pine resin onto these materials will make them even easier to light. Pile the tinder onto the cleared site, shield it from the wind, and carefully light it with a match. As the flame grows, add more tinder, then toss in some kindling (easily lit material such as small sticks and twigs). Finally, add the heartier wood.
However, if it rains and your matches get wet, it’s helpful to have some backup methods on hand. One reliable method involves using flint and steel. This method also requires the use of char cloth, fungus or birch- materials which will keep a spark smoldering. You will hold the flint with the char cloth against it, making sure to leave several inches of the rock exposed. Then strike the steel against the flint until a spark lands on the char cloth. Place the smoldering char cloth against the tinder and gently blow on it to ignite a flame.
Another simple method to start a fire involves using a magnifying glass. In addition to magnifying glasses, lenses such as binoculars or far-sighted eyeglasses work for this method. Angle the lens to focus the sun’s light in a small area. Put a few drops of water on the lens in order to intensify the effect. Put tinder upon the spot where the sunlight is concentrated. On a very sunny day, the tinder should start to smoke and catch fire.
No matter which method you use, be sure to thoroughly extinguish your fire before leaving the site!
Images via lowjumpingfrog, spacepleb
