How to Have a Campfire in the Backyard

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

20 Apr 2009 10:45 AM

Having a cozy campfire in the backyard is a great way to have a low-cost and fun activity that can be adapted for kids or adults. Have a campfire as a family activity, or invite the neighbors and friends for a nice social gathering.

The first thing you need to do when planning to have a campfire in the backyard is to know what the rules are for open burning and campfires in your town. Some areas allow free open burning of organic material (including wood), while others limit the time of year, time of day, the size of the fire and the circumstances of the fire.

Once you understand the rules and regulations of having a campfire in the backyard, you'll want to consider safety. There are two main things to understand about open campfires that will help keep everyone safe.

The first thing to consider is the location of the campfire. It should be far enough away from your home and any outbuildings. You also want to make sure that at least a five- to ten-foot radius around the fire is clear of debris including dry wood, leaves and pine needles or anything flammable. Obviously any flammable liquids should be kept even farther away. Rake out a good area and consider creating an actual firepit that contains the campfire with fireproof material, such as stones or brick.

The second safety precaution to consider when planning your campfire are the weather conditions. When humidity is low and wind is high, there is an increased danger of forest fires. Embers can fly and catch on to dry material. Check your weather report, which should have warnings about fire conditions.

Build up your kindling and wood in a circle or tent configuration. Once your fire is up and running, make sure it and any children are supervised at all times. Be careful not to overbuild the fire and keep a bucket of water handy at all times for safety. When the fire does die down to nothing but coals, you can carefully rake it out and bury the coals. Dousing the ground with that bucket of water is an extra safety precaution that will give you piece of mind.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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