Fire Safety - Wild Fires

Currently there are 54 "Large Incidence" wildfires burning throughout the Nation.  Most are west of Texas.  As we go through the remainder of this summer there are a few precautions that we as scouts can take to be Fire Smart in the outdoors.  Check with the Forest Service in your area if camp fires are still permitted. If you are allowed to have a camp fire, the following are a few tips to follow.
Fire Safety Merit Badge - Req.10

• Obey all fire regulations set by the National Forest Dept.
• Pick a smart spot for your fire – away from buildings or other structures that could easily ignite, even with very little wind; at least 25 feet for campfires and 50 feet for bonfires.
• Keep your fire contained in an area free from dry grass, leaves, or trees and other vegetation where sparks could spread the fire. Use a fire ring or outdoor fireplace whenever possible.
• Have water or sand and a shovel available close by for emergency use, and to use when it’s time to put out your fire.
• Never burn on windy, dry days to keep the fire from spreading out of control.
• Never use combustible fluids like lighter fluid, charcoal lighter, gasoline or kerosene to get your fire started – even if you think it will get things going more quickly.
• Prepare dry tinder and kindling wood ahead of time and start with a small stack in your fire pit or fireplace. This will make it easier to light your fire and much easier to control how fast it grows.
• Use a long match or lighter to ignite the tinder and other starter fuel for your fire.
• Keep extra firewood a safe distance away from the fire – upwind and several yards away from blowing embers.
• Never leave your fire unattended, even if it’s down to glowing coals and hot ash.
• Pour enough water on your fire to drown all the embers – listen to make sure all the hissing has stopped and steam is no longer rising.
• Stir the remains of your fire with a shovel to thoroughly mix the ash and water together.
• Before you’re done, place a hand near the wet, dark coals and ash. Everything should feel nice and cool, not hot.