10 Campfire Safety Tips for campers with Kids
Campfires are the main culprit of camping accidents involving youngsters in the United States. Educate your children about fire risks, and keep kids and pets away from the campfire unless they sit on an adult’s lap.
As the summer camping season approaches, it’s important to brush up on your campfire safety skills. Here are some helpful 10 campfire safety tips to keep in mind next time you’re enjoying a cozy campfire:
1. Make sure your fire is in a designated fire pit:
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people try to start a fire anywhere and everywhere. If there’s no designated fire pit, find a clear area at least 10 feet away from trees, bushes, or other flammable objects.
2. Use dry, seasoned wood:
This is key for starting and maintaining a good campfire. Wet wood will smoke and sizzle, but it won’t catch fire easily and won’t burn as hot or as long as dry wood.
3. Build a tepee-style fire:
Start by placing larger logs on the ground in the shape of a tepee. Then, add some smaller logs and kindling in the middle. Light the kindling and let the larger logs catch fire.
4. Don’t use accelerants:
It may seem like a good idea to use gasoline or lighter fluid to get your fire going, but it’s dangerous. Not only is there a risk of the fire getting out of control, but the fumes can be toxic.
5. Keep an eye on your fire at all times:
Once it is lit, you must ensure you keep an eye on it. Don’t leave it unattended for even a minute – especially if kids or pets are around.
6. Extinguish your fire before going to bed:
This is crucial! Make sure you put out your fire completely before going to sleep. The best way to do this is to douse it with water and stir the ashes until they’re cool.
7. Don’t build a bonfire:
Bonfires are massive fires that can quickly get out of control. They also produce a lot of smoke, which can annoy your camping neighbors. Stick to smaller fires that are easy to manage.
8. Be aware of your surroundings:
When camping, it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings, especially when you have a fire. Make sure there are no overhead low-hanging branches that could catch fire, and be careful not to kick any dirt or rocks into the flames.
9. Use common sense:
This may seem obvious, but using common sense goes a long way when you’re camping – especially when it comes to campfires. If something doesn’t seem safe, don’t do it!
10. Have fun!: Camping is all about having fun and enjoying the great outdoors. So relax, roast some marshmallows, and enjoy your time around the campfire!
Here are 10 tips for camping with kids:
1. Choose a safe campsite.
When choosing a campsite, ensure it is safe for your children. Avoid campsites that are near steep cliffs or bodies of water. Also, ensure the campsite is free from hazards such as poisonous plants or animals.
Before heading out on your camping trip:
- Teach your children about campfire safety.
- Show them how to build a safe fire and how to properly extinguish it.
- Teach them to never leave the fire unattended.
3. Keep a close eye on your children.
It is vital to keep a close eye on your children while camping. Make sure they are not wandering off into the woods or near bodies of water.
4. Dress your children in proper clothing.
Dress your children in clothing that is appropriate for the weather. They should also wear closed-toe shoes to protect their feet from hazards.
5. Pack plenty of food and water.
Pack plenty of food and water for your camping trip. This will help to prevent your children from becoming dehydrated or hungry.
6. Bring along first-aid supplies.
Make sure to bring along a first-aid kit on your camping trip. This will come in handy if your child gets hurt while camping.
7. Bring along a flashlight.
A flashlight can be handy while camping. It can be used to light your way in the dark or to signal for help.
8. Bring along a map.
A map can be beneficial while camping. It can help you to find your way around the campsite and to avoid getting lost.
9. Teach your children about camping etiquette
Teach your children about camping etiquette. This includes being respectful of other campers and not making too much noise.
10.Check to see whether campfires are permitted.
Before you light up that campfire, it’s always a good idea to check whether they’re actually allowed. You don’t want to be the one responsible for starting a forest fire, now do you?
In all seriousness though, it’s always a good idea to check with the local authorities before lighting any kind of fire, especially in drought-prone areas. So before you get too excited about roasting marshmallows over an open flame, make sure it’s actually allowed.
11. Have fun!
Camping is a great way to spend time with your family and create lasting memories. Make sure to have fun and enjoy your time camping with your children.
