Simple steps can keep campfires from becoming wildfires

New Hampshire and summertime campfires go hand-in-hand, and the state’s Forest Protection Bureau is reminding everyone that some simple actions can prevent this fun summer activity from turning into one to remember for all of the wrong reasons.

“No one plans for their campfire or cookout to turn into a fire incident,” said N.H. Forest Protection Bureau Chief Steven Sherman. “That’s why it’s very important to know how to legally and safely have a campfire, as well as how to extinguish it properly.”

Anyone wishing to have a campfire or any outdoor fire in New Hampshire must obtain a state fire permit in advance from the local fire department. Most communities in the state make their permits available through nhfirepermit.com and will issue them on days when daily fire danger conditions indicate that it’s safe to burn.

Established campgrounds usually have seasonal fire permits in place as well as established fire rings or pits already, making it easier to have a safe campfire.

For anyone wishing to build a campfire on their own, several factors must be considered to keep a campfire as safe as possible:

-    The law requires you to have a campfire in an established fire pit or fire ring
-    You should choose a spot at least 25 feet away from tent walls, shrubs or other flammable objects
-    Clear the ground of any dried grasses, leaves and anything that can burn
-    Make sure there are no branches, powerlines or other hazards hanging over the campfire area
-    Remain aware of the fire at all times and be careful when near it
-    Keep a source of water, bucket and a shovel nearby to extinguish the fire
-    Remember that having any type of outdoor fire in New Hampshire without a permit is illegal.

“Making sure a campfire is a fun, safe activity does take some planning, but it’s totally worth it,” said N.H. Forest Ranger Nathan Blanchard. “You’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ve done everything you can to be safe and that will allow you to better enjoy your time outside with family and friends.”

Part of the campfire experience also means making sure the fire is completely out; even when there are no red coals or embers, there can still be enough heat to start a wildfire.

There are three key steps to making sure a campfire is out:
-    Drown the ashes in lots of water
-    Stir the wet ash with a shovel
-    Feel the ashes with your bare hand. If you notice any heat at all, repeat the process until the ashes are cool to the touch.

“We all know Smokey Bear’s advice that ‘Only you can prevent wildfires,’ and it’s part of our mission at the N.H. Forest Protection Bureau to make sure everyone knows how to do their part,” said Blanchard. “We want to make sure that everyone has an excellent time this summer and has only good memories to take home with them.”

On average, New Hampshire experiences 200 wildfires each year, which burn an average of 250 acres and cause additional property damage. Another 200-300 illegal fires are extinguished before they turn into wildfires.

Complete tips on how to safely build and extinguish a campfire are available at Smokey Bear’s website, smokeybear.com.

The N.H. Forest Protection Bureau is part of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ Division of Forests and Lands, which protects and promotes the value provided by trees, forests, and natural communities. For more information about the Division of Forests and Lands and the work of its Forest Protection Bureau, visit nhdfl.dncr.nh.gov or call 603-271-2214.

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