Use fire without creating a second disaster
Decide whether fire is necessary, select a safe site, control fuel and extinguish completely.
Critical caution: Observe all fire bans. Never use open flame or combustion appliances in enclosed spaces, during extreme fire danger or where embers can escape.
- Time
- 20 minutes setup
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Outcome
- Obtain heat or cooking with controlled ignition and complete extinguishment
Survival lens: Back-to-basics skills are useful only with modern fire science. The smallest controlled heat source that completes the job is safer and conserves fuel.
Before you begin
- Check fire bans and local warnings
- Choose a non-combustible location
- Prepare extinguishing resources first
What you need
- Water supply
- Shovel or extinguishing tool
- Stable cooking support
- Dry fuel in small quantities
- Fire blanket or extinguisher where appropriate
Step-by-step procedure
- Question the need. Use insulation, daylight, cold meals or an approved appliance if they meet the goal with less risk.
- Clear the site. Use mineral earth or a purpose-built hearth. Remove leaves, bark and overhead fuel well beyond the ember zone.
- Control the fuel. Bring only what is needed. Keep the remaining supply and liquid fuel far away. Never add flammable liquid to an established fire.
- Build small. A small fire is easier to feed, shield, cook over and extinguish. Maintain stable cookware and a clear working side.
- Supervise continuously. One responsible adult remains within reach of suppression equipment. Watch wind and airborne embers.
- Extinguish completely. Apply water, stir, expose hidden heat and repeat until cold. Follow local rules for ash disposal.
How to check it is working
- No ban or extreme fire condition applies
- Water and tool are within reach
- Nothing combustible is above or downwind
- All remains are cold before leaving
Common mistakes
- Lighting before suppression is ready
- Building a large “comfort” fire
- Using petrol or accelerants
- Burying hot coals instead of cooling them
Sources and further reading
How this guide was checked
Editorial synthesis: Editorial synthesis; always follow local fire-danger rules
Independent specialist review: not yet completed. How review works.
Last updated: Nov 2026 · edition 1.0.
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