Safer Camping Starts with a Few Smart Habits

Don’t let one small spark rewrite the whole trip.

The campfire’s going and the air is mildly cool. Everyone’s passing around marshmallows and debating strategies for getting the fire blazing just right. Crickets are loud, the stars are out and it’s one of those nights you don’t want to end.

But all it takes is one missed step, like a spark landing in dry brush, a fire left alone for “just a minute,” or embers that looked out but weren’t — and things can change fast.

Campfires are the best part of camping. But a few smart habits — like having a reliable fire extinguisher on hand — can help keep them from becoming the reason everyone packs up early.

Set the Scene the Safe Way

Before you strike a match, take a minute to set things up right. Where and how you build the fire matters more than people think.

A group of 6 icons that go with text saying: "check local fire restrictions; use designated fire rings or pits; clear a safe area of dry leaves, grass, and brush; never leave a fire unattended; never use a gasoline or flammable liquids to start it; and Keep water and dirt or sand nearby."

Don’t Rush the Last Part of the Night

The night is winding down and people are starting to yawn. Everyone is so ready to be zipped up in their cozy sleeping bags — and the fire looks out enough to call it a night. Unfortunately, this is where a lot of campfire problems start. A fire that looks out can still be holding heat underneath. Embers can stay hot for hours and reignite long after everyone has gone to bed. If it’s still warm, it’s still a risk. Take the extra minute and finish the job right.

An ai generated image of a fire pit that has reduced to embers.

Let the fire fully burn down

An ai generated image of a fire pit that a person is pouring water on top of it

Pour water over it (not just dirt)

An ai generated image of a fire pit that a person is raking the wet coals.

Stir the ashes and repeat until it’s cold

It’s Not Just About the Campfire

Campsites can have more than one safety risk. Things like cooking gear, lanterns and enclosed spaces all deserve the same attention.

Cook with stoves and lanterns away from tents
Only use battery-powered equipment inside tents
Never use fuel-burning devices in enclosed spaces
Pack a fire extinguisher

Keep the Trip About the Memories

A little prep goes a long way in the great outdoors. And bringing along a fire extinguisher adds an extra layer of readiness. Because the best camping stories should be about what happened around the fire — not because of it.