Just For Kids

Have you thought about a safer way to have a warm, crackling fire in your camping area along the trail? Smokey Bear has given us seven tips for you and your parents to follow when you want a campfire. Always ask a parent to help you around a fire, because fires can be dangerous!

Remember that you cannot have a campfire outdoors when fire restrictions are in place because of fire season! Many thousands of acres of forest and grassland are burned each year because campfires got away from people, and homes are burned up and people are killed. Don't be an accident. Be sure you know it's legal to have a campfire before you plan one!

If you know that it is legal to have a campfire where you are, here are some safety tips:

1. Dig a small pit away from overhanging branches. Most campsites have campfire pits ready and waiting for you.
2. Circle the pit with rocks or be sure it already has a metal fire ring.
3. Clear a five-foot area around the pit several inches down in the soil.
4. Keep a bucket of water and a shovel nearby just in case.
5. Keep your firewood upwind and away from the fire.
6. After lighting, do not discard the match until it is cold. Put it in the fire.
7. Never leave a campfire unattended, not even for a minute!

Now you know what it takes to have a safe campfire.

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