What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you picture surviving in the wilderness? I don’t know what you thought of, but it’s definitely comfort, and what can’t be without comfort?
Fire
The truth is, starting a fire in the wilderness isn’t as easy as it seems in the movies. If you’ve never done it, don’t worry – this guide will teach you step-by-step everything you need to know so you can confidently light your first spark.
Step 1: Picking the Perfect Location
Before you light a match, find a safe spot:
Avoid areas with strong winds (this can ruin your survival).
Stay away from overhanging trees (you don’t want your forest to burn down, do you?).
Clear the ground of dry leaves and grass.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Think of your fire as building a house: you need a solid foundation:
Use dry grass, birch bark, cotton balls, or even tumble dryer lint (even candy wrappers, anything you find flammable).
Kindling – small pencil-sized sticks.
Firewood – larger logs that will help keep the fire going once it’s started.
Remember: Always gather more firewood than you need. Fires eat wood quickly!
Step 3: Master a simple fire pit
The easiest way to start a fire for beginners is a teepee fire:
Place the tinder in the center.
Surround it with a cone of thin kindling.
Light the tinder and gradually add more wood as the fire grows.
The teepee shape allows air to circulate, providing oxygen to the fire.
Step 4: Starting a Fire
For your first fire, use reliable tools:
Matches (store them in a waterproof container)
A lighter
Fire sticks or a ferromagnetic rod
Fire the tinder first. Take your time – give the fire time to burn before adding larger pieces of wood.
Step 5: Fire Safety
A survival fire is only useful if it is safe. Remember:
Keep water or sand nearby to put out the fire.
Never leave it unattended.
Pour water on the fire before leaving, stir the ashes, and add more water until it cools completely.
Practice before you need to
The worst time to learn how to start a fire is during a real emergency. Practice in your backyard or on a hike. The more you practice, the faster and more confident you will be.
That’s all for now
