Campfires are great for evening camps where you and your friends or family gather around a warm fire and toast to customs or marshmallows. Campfires are also great for outdoor connections and relaxing by the fire, especially at night. Many of us can appreciate the warmth campfires can give us, but caution should be exercised when starting one. Summer can be a hot and dry season where leaves, grasses, and twigs can easily catch fire.
Australia has a mainly arid climate with the days usually being very hot and dry. We have seen the dangers of bush fires in the country. That's why we're sharing some pros and cons here when it comes to making a campfire in the land down under.
Start a campfire away from other flammable materials
The location and setup of a bonfire are critical to a safe and enjoyable experience. Place your campfire a safe distance from buildings. If you are making an open campfire, make sure that there are no other flammable materials around, such as: B. dry leaves, twigs or twigs. As a precaution, keep the area around the campfire moist before lighting it. MAX Fire Pits craftsmen recommend bringing a custom fire pit for campfires or creating a makeshift one to contain the fire and reduce the risk of fire. The Australian outback can experience extreme temperature shifts from day to night, and dry bushes and shrubs are another reason you should contain the campfire as much as possible.
Don't start large bonfires
Leave the big bonfires to parties and community celebrations. If you are camping with friends or family, a small and controllable campfire should be sufficient. Keep the flames low and do not fan the fire to avoid sparks and embers flying onto the surrounding dry vegetation. High flames can also reach deep-lying branches. So keep your wood pile low.
Keep water or fire extinguishers nearby
Always have water or a fire extinguisher handy when making a campfire outdoors. They are used to control or extinguish the fire when it is time to sleep or when you no longer need the fire. Having a fire extinguisher, water, or improvised flame retardant nearby also helps keep the fire under control and act immediately in the event of a campfire-related accident or emergency.
Do not use flammable liquids to start a fire
Never start a campfire with kerosene, gasoline, lighter fluid, or any flammable liquid. While these fluids can make a fire a lot easier, they also increase the risk of fire accidents. These liquids are highly volatile and can ignite if their containers are not properly stored or disposed of. Instead of risking fire accidents and burns, start your campfire using traditional fire-making methods such as matches.
Follow fire restrictions and guidelines
Australia has strict rules and regulations when it comes to outdoor fires, especially during the Fire Danger Sean and Total Fire Ban days. Check with the municipality or township that is responsible for your campfire for information about the required fire restrictions and possible fire permits. You will also need to review other applicable restrictions and guidelines if your campfire schedule is outside of these critical days. If informed in advance, you can take precautions and be careful around making a campfire.
Staying near a bonfire with your family or friends is a wonderful experience no matter where in the world you are. Australia is just as amazing as any place where family and friendship can be celebrated through warm outdoor gatherings around the campfire. As long as you take the right precautions and make sure to make a campfire, you will have a fun outdoor experience anywhere.