First Aid Friday: Campfire Safety

First Aid Friday:  Choosing a safe place for a campfire

A safe campfire location is where only the intended fuel will burn when fed to the fire.  It needs to be where flames won’t spread if proper precautions are taken.  If possible, use premade firepits/grilling areas.  If the need to make a campfire where there isn’t a designated spot, be selective in the spot chosen for the fire.  Choose a spot that is down to the bare ground--gravel, sand or bare soil away from grasses, plants, bushes or anything else that possibly could catch fire.  Also make sure branches from trees over head aren’t too close.  Remove all burnable material both in the campfire spot and surrounding areas for about 10 or more feet from the fire. ALWAYS have water available for dousing the fire in emergency.  Before leaving the campfire area, make sure it is out cold, that the ashes both on top and on bottom are cool enough to touch to ensure the possibility of fire spreading is limited.

Camping is an enjoyable activity.  But, if safety isn't take seriously, harm or death can result.  Be sure to know and follow fire safety rules to be able to limit any possible accidents and danger.