Few things capture the magic of the outdoors like a good old-fashioned campfire — the crackle of wood, the warmth on a cool night, and the simple joy of sharing stories under the stars. But that same fire can quickly become a hazard if not treated with care. Whether you’re camping in the bush, by the coast, or in your own back garden, practising good campfire safety keeps you, others, and the environment safe.
Pick the Right Spot
Good fires start with good planning. Before lighting anything, make sure that you’re in a spot where fires are actually permitted. Many campsites and national parks have very specific fire zones, and in dry or windy weather, total fire bans may apply — so, the first piece of advice to follow is: always check local conditions.
Choose a flat, open area away from tents, trees, dry grass, and hanging branches. Clear a circle of at least two metres around the fire site, removing leaves, sticks, or anything that could catch easily.
If there’s a designated fire pit, use it — it’s built for exactly that purpose. No need to reinvent the wheel, right?
Build It Right
A safe campfire isn’t about size; it’s about control. Keep it small, manageable, and tidy.
Use the Right Materials
Start with dry wood — never leaves, plastics, or treated timber, which can release toxic fumes. Begin with kindling and small sticks, then add larger logs once the flame catches.
Avoid Accelerants
We do understand the temptation, but never use petrol, lighter fluid, or aerosols to get your fire going. It might seem faster, but it’s dangerous and unpredictable. Patience and a bit of dry tinder are all you need.
Mind the Wind
If there’s even a mild breeze, position yourself upwind to avoid stray sparks. Wind can carry embers several metres — one of the most common causes of accidental bushfires.
Stay Alert While It Burns
Once your fire’s going, it needs your full attention. A few simple precautions keep things safe and relaxed.
Keep Extinguishing Tools Nearby
Always have a bucket of water, sand, or even a small fire extinguisher within arm’s reach. A compact dry powder extinguisher is ideal for camping as it handles wood, paper, and fuel fires — the most common outdoor risks.
If you’re a regular camper, it’s worth learning a bit about fire extinguisher servicing too. It’s a small detail, but one that ensures your gear actually works when you need it.
Supervise the Fire
This may sound a bit paranoid, but it’s usually not a good idea to ever leave a campfire unattended — not even for a quick walk. Assign someone to keep an eye on it, especially if there are children or pets around.
Respect the Distance
Keep chairs, tents, and gear well away from the flame. A safe rule of thumb: if you can feel the heat strongly, you’re probably too close.
Put It Out Properly
When it’s time to call it a night, don’t just walk away from a smouldering pile of embers — they can reignite hours later.
- Douse thoroughly with water, stirring the ashes as you pour.
- Repeat until everything is cool to the touch.
- Never bury a fire under sand or soil — it traps heat, allowing embers to burn beneath the surface.
If you’re camping in the wild, scatter the cool ashes once you’re done and make sure the area looks as close to untouched as possible.
Campfire Etiquette and Environmental Care
A safe camper is also a considerate one. Fires can impact the environment long after they’re out.
- Use only fallen wood — never cut live branches.
- Keep fires small to reduce smoke and preserve air quality.
- Avoid making new fire rings; reuse existing ones to limit damage to soil and vegetation.
Remember, responsible fire use helps preserve natural spaces for everyone to enjoy.
Stay Prepared, Stay Relaxed
Part of the joy of camping is its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean skipping safety. Pack a small first aid kit, keep a torch handy, and store spare water near your tent. If you’re bringing a portable stove or lantern, check gas connections before use and keep them away from open flames.
A little preparation means you can sit back, roast marshmallows, and enjoy that peaceful glow without worry.
Fire Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility
The best campfires leave only memories — not scorch marks. Just use common sense and make sure you follow few simple safety steps. This way you’ll protect not just yourself but everyone else sharing the same space. Fire, when respected, is part of what makes camping magical. Keep it that way: controlled, safe, and something to enjoy, not fear.