Beyond the Flames

Summer is finally here, and thousands of tourists will soon flock to the county’s campgrounds. Campfires are a fixture for any camping excursion, but without taking proper precautions, what seems like a harmless blaze can have devastating consequences. Injuries resulting from campfires are the leading cause of injury for children during camping activities, but a few simple steps can help you lower the chances of injury during your vacation.
Campgrounds often have metal fire rings for campfires, and these should be utilized if available. However, if you do need to choose your own spot for a campfire, a location away from overhanging limbs, dry grass and leaves, buildings and vehicles. The area around the fire location should be a clearing of gravel or dirt at least six feet in diameter and the area should be kept clear of any debris or other items in order to ensure that embers do not ignite them.
Lighting the fire can also be a source of injury. When building a fire, it is best to use softwoods like pine, cedar and fir to initially start the campfire, as softer woods will more easily ignite. Never use lighter fluid or other accelerants when lighting you fire. Begin with small, dry branches and continue to add larger branches and logs as the fire grows larger. Be sure to keep your campfire small.
Properly extinguishing a fire is just as important as igniting one. Be sure to always have a bucket of water standing by, and to fully douse the flames with water, stirring the ashes of the fire around until they are fully wet and cool. Do not bury your coals, as coals can smolder for a lengthy period of time and reignite.
Also, it is important to note that all campfires not held in a registered campground or park in New Jersey require a permit issued by the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service. These permits are easy to obtain, and are free of charge. For more information, visit the Forest Fire Service online at www.state.nj.us/dep.
And while forest fires are sometimes beneficial for the habitats they take place in, the state forest fire service as specially trained personnel to handle controlled burns. Following just a few simple safety guidelines can prevent you from causing a devastating blaze.