How to Build the Perfect Bonfire
There is something magnetic about a fire. It brings people together, starts conversation, and attracts the eye in a mesmerising way.
But how do you build the perfect fire? Here are a few tips to help with this:
Safety first Dry grass, branches, and bark can catch fire easily and with all of the trees close by it's important to think about safety first. Check first to see if there is a fire ban in our area (click here) and grab a bucket full of water to have on hand in case of an emergency.
Gather your Materials
Tinder: Tinder will get your fire going and burns fast. Things like twigs, sticks, newspaper, cardboard, or - if you really planned ahead - dryer lint.
Kindling: Kindling is slightly larger than tinder and will build that nice coal bed for when you place your wood/logs
Wood/Logs: Logs will go on the fire last and keep your fire going. There are places along the shore at Crawford beach that sell fire wood or you can bring your own.
Matches/Lighter: You will need these to start the fire.
Build your Fire:
Put the tinder in the centre of your pit.
Place your kindling on top of the tinder in a 'teepee' type structure. Remember to leave an opening on the side your going to light the fire.
After this you should be fire ready! Build this as big as you want (and the pit allows!).
Light your Fire
Grab your fire starter (matched/etc.) and light the tinder in a few places to get it burning. You might need to add more tinder if the kindling takes longer to catch fire.
As the fire burns you can gradually add larger sticks and logs to keep it going and make it larger.
That is pretty much it! You should have a roaring fire and in no time have beautiful coals to cook hot dogs and s'mores over. We love camp fires here at Crawford Beach and we hope you enjoy them here too!
To try something fun pick up a package of Funky Colored Flames from Walmart or Canadian Tire and watch the flames change color before your eyes! If you do this make sure to do this after all the hot dogs and s'mores have been cooked so your food stays safe!
