2021-04 Be A Fire Builder

On every campout I have been on over the years, there seems to be that one scout that is the fire builder of the troop. This is the scout who’s first reaction when arriving at the campsite is to get the fire built before they even think about setting up their tent, or the camp kitchen, or the dining fly. They are the same who at first light are attempting to blow on the small embers from last night’s fire to get the flames roaring again despite any of the weather conditions the elements may throw at them.

We practice using flint and steel during patrol meetings throughout the year to help prepare you for when the time is needed to strike the spark for the overnight campfire each month. If you have ever used a flint and steel, you understand the difficulty level and the skill that is involved. As you strike the flint (or ferro rod) with the steel, you will notice that you can produce a spark. But, if you do nothing with your spark, it will quickly die out. You need to have your tinder and kindling ready. You need to be ready to feed that little spark with fuel and with oxygen. Feed the spark with too much of either and you run the risk of smothering it. You must have patience as you tend to this little spark that will eventually burst into a flame with the right conditions. A flame that will meet all your needs of cooking, warmth, protection, and light.

Most worthwhile endeavors are like building a fire with your flint and steel; friendships, school, sports, employment, even marriage and parenthood. “They all start with a little spark, but require careful and attentive nurturing before they will burst into flame and sustain themselves.”

Now, back to those early morning risers who are fire builders. On these especially cold winter campouts, there is always those select few who are tending to the fire and making sure that there is plenty of fuel while the others are stuck in place huddling around the fire to stay warm. Those who do not help feed the fire still enjoy the benefits of the warmth it provides. But, if there are no fire builders, and no one else leaves the fire to get more wood, the fire will eventually die out and everyone will be cold.

We encourage you, as Scouts, to be fire builders. Look after those little sparks that you have that will eventually heat and light the path not just you, but for those that you serve throughout this life. Strive to be the citizen that is actively doing their part in your community to help other people at all times, and to always be prepared.