5 quick tips to keep your fire safe this summer

I know you all read that in the best Smokey the Bear voice you could imagine. Ole’ Smokey had a point though. Only YOU can prevent forest fires. So take a couple tips from us and keep your fires safe this summer.

1. USE A FIRE PIT

These things were built for a reason; use them. Fire pits should be on gravel or dirt, NEVER grass.

2. CLEAR OUT

Once your pit is picked, remember the wise lyrics of Barney and “clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere.” Keep a nice 8-10 feet radius between the pit and anything else, like your tent, chairs, or gear.

You’ll also want to to make sure that any debris or low-hanging branches are cleared from the fire’s path. Your hands will probably suffice, so leave the bulldozer at home.

3. WATER WORKS

Keep water nearby at all times. We all know boys who are happy to put out the fire themselves, if you know what I mean, but let’s leave that job to water and call it a day.

4. BE THE WATCH

Join the famed Brothers of the Night’s Watch and WATCH YOUR FIRE. Seriously, watch it. If you don’t want to watch it, put it out.

5. SMALL AND IN CHARGE

You might be thinking, “I misread that. She meant large and in charge.” I didn’t. Keep your fires around a nice 2ft x 2ft. If you and your friends didn’t tell everyone you were having a bonfire, there’s no reason to start one. So again, keep it on the smaller size.