I. The following points can be followed when using fire outdoors:
1. Know the fire restrictions before you go hiking or camping.
Often, park or trail authorities will set fire use requirements, especially during seasons prone to wildfires. Pay attention to posted signs and warnings about wildfires and forest fire prevention along your route. Be aware that in some areas, fire control is stricter during high-risk seasons. As a hiker, it is your responsibility to understand these regulations.
2. Only collect fallen branches and similar materials, preferably from areas away from your campsite.
Otherwise, over time, the area around your campsite will become unnaturally bare. Never cut live trees or break branches from living trees, or even from dead ones, as many wild animals rely on these areas.
3. Avoid building overly large or thick fires.
Large amounts of wood often do not burn completely and typically leave behind charcoal or other fire remnants, which can impact the natural cycle of regrowth.
4. In areas where fires are allowed, use established fire rings.
Only build a new one in emergencies, and if possible, restore the site afterward. If there is an existing fire ring, clean it up before you leave.
5. Clear away all flammable materials near the fire ring.
Ideally, the fire site should be on non-flammable material such as dirt, rocks, or sand (often found near rivers). Sustained heat can make healthy soil infertile, so choose your fire location carefully.
If you're building a fire in an emergency to save your life, it's understandable not to consider long-term soil use. But try not to damage the landscape too much. In such cases, a fire starter and waterproof matches can be useful. You can also use fire pits and fire rings alternatives. Using tools, create a circular platform 15 to 20 cm high with mineralized soil (sand, light infertile soil). Use this as your fire site. If possible, build the platform on a flat rock to avoid damaging any soil where plants could grow. After using the fire, you can easily dismantle the platform. Some even carry portable grills or similar items to serve as movable fire platforms.
6. Take away all ashes left behind.
Remove any charcoal found within the fire ring, crush it, and disperse it over a wide area. Dismantle anything you built and take away all wood pieces. This may sound tedious, but it’s a responsible way to minimize the long-term impacts of using fire outdoors.
II. Building and extinguishing a fire:
1. To start a fire, build a small hollow cone with dry twigs, fill the center with leaves or dry grass, and light it with a match. (Remember to carry a fire starter or waterproof matches—firestarting materials are one of the top ten essentials.)
2. As the fire grows, gradually add slightly larger twigs. Move burning twigs to the center to ensure they burn fully. Ideally, you should burn everything to white ash.
3. Only burn trash that can be completely consumed and turned to ash. Do not attempt to burn plastic, cans, or aluminum foil. If you must burn non-combustible waste, ensure you remove and pack out or properly dispose of any leftover material nearby.
4. Never leave a fire unattended.
5. If you need to dry clothes, tie a rope between trees near the fire and hang your clothes on it.
6. To extinguish a fire, first pour water over it, then stir the embers and pour more water. Repeat this process until the fire is completely out. Before leaving the fire site, make sure the ashes are cool enough to touch. Ensure all flames and embers are completely extinguished and cold before you leave.
Campfires are generally not allowed in the wilderness, but they can be crucial in emergencies. If you choose to have a fire, you are responsible for knowing how to build it, keep it safe, extinguish it responsibly, and minimize its impact. Camping can be a joyful experience, but safety must always come first.