There’s nothing like a campfire . . . as long as it doesn’t wander away from camp. It may sound silly. But every scoutmaster knows it’s a possibility when leading boys into Utah’s backcountry.
So how do you keep those campfire experiences safe and memorable? How do you keep traditions of s’mores, storytelling and scoutmaster moments alive without exposing your camp to the risks of wildfire?
Today, we would love to would share some safety tips that will help you keep the campfire crackling — as fire conditions allow — while teaching your scouts how to stay safe in Utah’s outdoors.
- Always use the metal fire ring or pre-dug pit, if you reserve a campground that comes with one ready. The pre-made fire pit is most-likely set in a safe area, away from overhanging tree branches. Or, dig a small pit in an open area.
- If you have to build a fire pit, also avoid steep slopes, rotten stumps, logs, dry grass and leaves. In general, a campfire should be less than three feet in height four feet in diameter.
- Be sure to clear out flammable materials from the fire pit and the five-foot area surrounding it. Clear the area down to the soil, and circle the pit with rocks.
- Stack any extra wood, paper and leaves upwind and away from the fire. You don’t want sparks from the fire to set the ready fuel source ablaze.
- After you light the fire, don’t discard the match until you’re sure it’s cold. Also keep a bucket of water and a shovel nearby.
- Don’t ever leave the campfire unattended. When you put a fire out, stir the remains and douse with more water. Don’t just bury the embers, as they can smolder and reignite.
- Never start fires in restricted areas. In Utah, some areas have restrictions placed on them during the height of the summer season to prevent dangerous brush fires. Check local fire department and government websites for information if you are unsure about the rules for the area where you’ll be camping.
- If you are unsure about the safety of building a fire in an unrestricted area, consider using a small stove for cooking instead of building a fire.
Enjoy your time in Utah’s backcountry! If you have any questions about how to keep your troop safe, please don’t hesitate to call.