Wildfire Starts Here: How to Prevent Forest Fires While Camping, Hiking, or Backpacking

One ember. One careless move. That’s all it takes to spark a wildfire that can destroy thousands of acres, threaten communities, and take lives.

If you love the outdoors, preventing wildfires isn’t just a good idea—it’s your duty. Whether you’re camping, cooking, hiking, or just enjoying the view, you have the power to protect the wild places we all cherish.

🔥 Did You Know?

Over 85% of wildfires are caused by human activity
Campfires, discarded cigarettes, unattended grills, and even vehicle exhaust systems can ignite dry grass
Fires can spread from a spark in under 60 seconds under dry, windy conditions

🏕️ How to Prevent Wildfires While Enjoying the Outdoors

🔥 1. Campfire Only Where It’s Allowed

Use designated fire rings or fire pits only
Respect fire bans or burn restrictions—even if it looks “safe” to you
Clear a 10-foot radius of all brush, pine needles, or dry grass around any fire

If you’re not 100% sure fires are allowed—skip it.

💧 2. Never Leave Fire or Flames Unattended

Stay within arm’s reach of the fire at all times
Keep water, dirt, or a shovel nearby
Fully extinguish fire: Drown, stir, drown again. If it’s not cold—it’s not out.

🔥 3. Use Portable Stoves for Cooking

Compact stoves are safer, faster, and less risky
Set them up on stable, non-flammable surfaces
Keep a 3-foot clearance zone free of debris and gear

🚬 4. Smoke Responsibly—Or Not at All

Don’t smoke on trails or in dry brush
If you do smoke, carry pocket ashtrays and extinguish butts in water
Never flick ashes or cigarette butts onto the ground

🚗 5. Park Only on Hardened Surfaces

Car and RV exhaust systems can ignite dry grass
Only park on gravel, dirt pads, or pavement—not brush or grass

🧯 6. Report Unattended Fires or Suspicious Activity

Don’t assume someone else will handle it
Contact rangers or authorities immediately
Take photos of license plates or vehicles if necessary

🎒 7. When Hiking or Backpacking:

Avoid open flame in dry backcountry areas
Don’t use candles or open torches—headlamps and lanterns are safer
Be extremely cautious with flint strikers or fire-starting gear during dry seasons

🧠 Before You Leave Camp: Do the Fire Check

✔️ Fire out? (Ashes cool to touch)
✔️ Stove off?
✔️ No coals, cigarettes, or smoldering debris?
✔️ Trash packed out?
✔️ Area clear of new flammable hazards?

If “yes” to all five—you’re leaving responsibly.

Why This Matters

Every year, people who “didn’t mean to” light a wildfire do. And once it starts, it doesn’t ask questions. Wildfires destroy lives, homes, animals, and sacred outdoor spaces.

But the good news? Most are preventable—with simple awareness, discipline, and action.

Because if you love the wild—you protect it.

Leave the land better than you found it. Leave no flame behind.