Sitting safely by a campfire

Sitting by a campfire, keeps us warm and makes our tea.  

And sitting by the fire, this is where we like to be.

But in the hot, hot summer, when the ground is cracked and dry.

When building up our fires, there are things that we must try.

First to get permission, from whoever owns the land.

So we don’t make a fire where lighting fires is banned.

Next, we choose the place to lay our fire a bed.

Clear soil, no turf and leaves, to stop it should it spread.

Look above to check for any overhanging branch.

And spots where wildlife might stop to have their lunch.

It’s fine to change your mind, but remember be prepared.

Keep sand or water near, so there’s no need to be scared.

Now turn to our fuel, taking what we need only.

Keep it neat together, so it won’t get lonely.

Best wood is dead and dry, and all sorted out by size.

Take no wood that’s living, but find on the floor our prize.

Don’t load it up too high – that’ll spoil all of the fun.

Let it burn steady and stop when you are done.

When the evening’s ended, rake the ash into a pile.

To let the embers cool, you might have to wait awhile.

If you’re due to leave, then let the fire burn no more.

Cover it with soil, and on it water pour.

Replace the turf you took, and leave no trace behind,

Only thanks and memories, for passers-by to find.

Where to light your fire

• Only light fires you’ll use. This saves time, effort, and fuel.
• Ask permission from any landowners, including asking the people in charge of campsites.
• Never light a fire in a ‘no fire zone’. Some areas are ‘no fire zones’, especially in dry summers where there could be serious risk to the countryside.

Clearing an area for your campfire

• Clear an area around your fire to stop it from spreading through leaves, grass, trees, bushes or other debris. Keep away from properties and sheds, too.
• Check for obstructions overhead, such as low-hanging branches, trees and cables
• Keep clear of areas where birds are nesting or animals have made their homes. Don't forget to check for nests or animals in the campfire, such as hedgehogs.
• Try to use existing campfire areas and hearths rather than starting new ones. If making a new campfire area, make a ring around the campfire out of stones, logs or heat-resistant bricks to contain the ash.
• If you cut an area of turf out to create a hearth, water the turf regularly and replace it when you leave.

Choosing the right wood

• Pick and burn only good, dry dead wood. Some sites will have a woodpile of approved material to burn.
• Avoid using green wood, as it doesn’t usually burn very well and produces loads of smoke.
• Avoid old rotten wood, especially willow, too. It won’t burn very well (because of all the moisture) and it’s usually home to all kinds of minibeasts.
• Keep your fuel close by, but not so close that it might catch fire accidentally. Make sure it’s somewhere that people won’t trip over it.

Keeping the fire under control

• To keep the fire under control, don’t burn logs that are thicker than your arm. You’ll have to wait ages (and go to bed very late) if you dump half a tree on.
• Keep a safe method of extinguishing fire close by in case your fire starts to spread or grow out of control, such as a bucket of sand or water, a fire extinguisher or a fire beater.
• Check the wind direction and speed as part of the planning and again before lighting.

Extinguishing the fire

• Never leave a fire unattended and wait until it's fully extinguished. 
• When you’re finished, leave the site as you found it (or better) by clearing up any litter and burying ashes under well-watered soil (to remove any heat still in them).
• Never leave a pile of smoking ashes unattended.

Staying safe

• Make sure young people have suitable and sufficient adult supervision.
• Only responsible adults should handle and light campfires.
• Stay a safe distance from the fire at all times.
• Tie back long hair, and make sure loose clothing and jewellery are tucked in. 
• If clothing catches fire, remember to stop, drop and roll.
• Have trained first aiders and appropriate first kits ready.

Reporting accidental or wild fires

• There are a number of ways accidental fires can start in the wilderness, such as lightning, fallen cables and even litter.
• If you see a fire without anyone supervising it, call 999 immediately.