Campfire safety and Leave No Trace basics

A campfire is one of the joys of camping, but it comes with responsibility.

Check the rules first

Many campsites and parks only allow fires in fire pits or raised fire bowls, and fire bans are common in dry weather. Always check before you go, and respect any restrictions.

Building a safe fire

• Use existing fire pits or a fire bowl.
• Clear a 3 m area around the fire of leaves and grass.
• Keep the fire small and manageable.
• Only burn dry, dead wood you're allowed to collect, or bring your own.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby.

Never leave it unattended

Supervise children and pets around the fire at all times.

Putting it out

Pour water on the fire, stir the ashes, and pour again until everything is cool to the touch. If it's too hot to touch, it's too hot to leave.

Leave No Trace

• Take all rubbish home, including food scraps.
• Stay on paths and use established pitches.
• Keep noise down and respect wildlife.
• Leave plants, stones and other natural things where you found them.