How to Build a Small Bonfire

Building a bonfire can be a fun and rewarding activity, whether you're camping, having a backyard gathering, or simply enjoying an evening outdoors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build a small, yet efficient and safe bonfire.

Materials You Will Need

• Tinder: Dry grass, leaves, pine needles, newspaper, or other easily combustible materials.
• Kindling: Small sticks, twigs, or branches no thicker than your thumb.
• Firewood: Larger pieces of wood, logs, or split wood for sustaining the fire.
• Fire Starter: Matches, a lighter, or any other source of ignition.
• Water Source: A bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher for safety.

Steps to Build Your Bonfire

1. Choose a Safe Location

• Distance: Make sure your bonfire is at least 15 feet away from tents, trees, and any other flammable structures or materials.
• Clear the Area: Remove any dry leaves, grass, or other debris in a 10-foot radius around your bonfire area.
• Fire Pit: If available, use a designated fire pit. If not, dig a shallow pit and surround it with rocks to contain the fire.

2. Prepare the Base

• Lay Down Tinder: Place a small amount of tinder in the center of your pit or fire area. This will be your fire’s starting point.

3. Build the Structure

• Teepee Formation: Arrange the kindling sticks around the tinder in the shape of a teepee, leaving some gaps for airflow.
• Add More Kindling: Gradually add more kindling on top of your structure, but don’t compact it too tightly. Good airflow is essential.
• Place Firewood: Once your teepee structure is stable, carefully add larger pieces of firewood around it. You can either continue with the teepee formation or create a log cabin structure.

4. Ignite the Fire

• Light the Tinder: Use your matches or lighter to ignite the tinder at several points to ensure even burning.
• Gradual Feeding: Add more kindling as the smaller pieces catch fire. Gradually add larger pieces of firewood, ensuring the fire doesn't become too large to manage.

5. Maintain the Fire

• Monitor Constantly: Never leave a bonfire unattended. Always keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t get out of control.
• Add Firewood: As the fire burns, add more firewood as needed to maintain the desired size.

6. Extinguish the Fire

• Let It Burn Down: Allow the fire to burn down to ash and embers if you’re done with it.
• Douse with Water: Pour water over the embers, stirring them with a stick to ensure everything is fully extinguished. Continue adding water until there’s no hissing sound.
• Check the Area: Feel the area with the back of your hand to ensure it’s cool to the touch before leaving.

Safety Tips

• Check Local Regulations: Always check if there are any fire bans or regulations in your area before starting a fire.
• Supervise Children and Pets: Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fire at all times.
• Have Extinguishing Supplies Ready: Always have a bucket of water or sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never Use Accelerants: Avoid using gasoline, lighter fluid, or other accelerants to start your fire. They can cause uncontrollable flare-ups.

By following these steps and tips, you can safely and effectively build a small bonfire for your outdoor enjoyment. Happy bonfire building!