To make an easy fire when you are not in need of warmth, purchase manufactured logs at hardware stores.
Cut large pieces of wood with an axe or knife to create kindling.
Hardwood, like oak and maple, will take longer to start burning but burn for a long time. Softwood, like pine and cedar, burns fast and crack and pops while burning due to resins.
Build a circle of large rocks measuring about 3 feet (0. 91 m) or 4 feet (1. 2 m) in diameter to mark where you are building the fire. Never build a fire anywhere within 6 feet (1. 8 m) of your shelter or tent if you are sleeping outdoors.
Repeat the pattern 2 to 3 times to build a “log cabin. " Again, this is an alternative to a cross fire or teepee structure.
Gently blow on the lit tinder to help build the fire. For the best results, light the tinder from several sides to ensure that it burns properly.
Flint and steel sets are available at hardware stores, sports stores, wilderness supply stores, or online.
Other sharp tools that you can use instead of pocket knives include pens, metal skewers, and nails.
If you do not see evidence of these things, it is safe to leave your fire site. If you see evidence of any of these things, repeat the above steps to extinguish the fire. If you don’t plan on using the fire site again, dump water over it.
