6 Essential Tips to Reduce Fire Risks When Camping

Camping is all about enjoying the beauty of nature and being with those you love with little to no distractions. However, camping comes with the responsibility of ensuring fire safety. Whether gathering around a campfire to share stories or cooking a hearty meal in the wild, reducing fire risks is crucial for your safety and preserving the environment. Here are six essential tips to help you minimize fire risks while camping.

Choose Your Campsite Wisely

The first step in fire safety is picking the right campsite. Look for designated camping areas that include fire rings or pits. If you’re setting up camp in a more remote area, ensure your campsite is at least 15 feet away from trees, brush, or other flammable materials. Avoid pitching your tent near dry grass, overhanging branches, or areas prone to strong winds.

Check for signs indicating fire restrictions or recent wildfire activity before settling into a location.

Build a Safe Campfire

Campfires are often the centerpiece of camping trips but require careful preparation. Always use designated fire rings or pits when available. If there’s no fire ring, clear a 10-foot radius around the fire site by removing leaves, twigs, and other flammable debris. The clearing creates a buffer zone that helps prevent the fire from spreading. The Near Zero Fire Starter Kit provides safe fire starter materials so you can start a fire safely.

Keep your fire small and manageable. A roaring bonfire might look impressive, but it’s harder to control and extinguish.

Monitor Your Fire

Never leave a campfire unattended. Even a small gust of wind can spread embers and ignite surrounding areas. Always supervise your fire, and keep it at a reasonable size. Have tools like a bucket of water, the Near Zero Titanium Shovel, or dirt nearby to quickly extinguish the flames if necessary.

Teach everyone in your camping group—especially children—about fire safety and the importance of respecting the campfire.

Follow Fire Restrictions

Check local fire regulations before lighting a campfire or using a portable stove. Many areas impose fire bans during dry seasons to prevent wildfires. Respect these restrictions, even if it means forgoing a campfire for the evening.

During fire bans, opt for alternatives like battery-powered lanterns or portable propane stoves. They’re safe, efficient, and easy to use.

Dispose of Ashes Properly

A campfire isn’t completely out until it’s cool to the touch. Before leaving your campsite or going to bed, pour water over the embers, stir the ashes with a stick or shovel, and repeat until there are no remaining hot spots. This simple step can prevent accidental fires long after you’ve left the area.

Be Smart with Gear and Equipment

Fire safety extends beyond your campfire. Use flame-resistant tents and keep them at a safe distance from cooking areas or open flames. Store flammable items like propane canisters, lighter fluid, and matches in secure, cool locations. Always check your gear for damage that could lead to accidents.

Invest in quality camping gear that prioritizes safety, such as spark arrestors for stoves or lanterns with enclosed flames.

Enjoy the Outdoors Responsibly

By following these fire safety tips, you can reduce risks, safeguard the environment, and ensure that your camping experience is both enjoyable and safe. At Near Zero, we want everyone to enjoy the great outdoors for a lifetime. So please remember, a little precaution goes a long way in preserving the beauty of the great outdoors for generations to come.

Happy camping—and stay safe out there!