Tips for Having a Campfire in Windy Weather
Sometimes you may have perfect weather on your camping trip. Not too cool, not too hot, and just the perfect amount of gentle breeze. Other times, however, Mother Nature may dish you out a heaping plate of adverse weather. Unfortunately, starting a bonfire when the weather is particularly windy isn’t just challenging, it can also be extremely dangerous. If you must start a fire amidst blustering breezes, make sure to follow these tips for having a campfire in windy weather.
Choose Your Location Wisely
When it comes to starting a campfire in windy conditions, choosing the right location is imperative. Ideally, you should choose to start your fire in an area that has some degree of shelter from the wind. For example, setting up camp by a boulder or the side of a mountain will provide you with a natural windbreaker. By having a barrier to block the wind, starting your fire and keeping it lit will prove much easier.
Opt for a Tipi Fire Lay
Arguably, one of the best ways to build a campfire during windy weather conditions is by opting for a tipi fire lay. To create a tipi fire lay, simply stack your firewood vertically in a circle and lean the tops of the logs against each other. The center of the tipi should remain open while the top is closed off. Such a design helps enclose the flames and protect them from the wind.
Utilize a Fire Ring
If you plan on starting a fire in windy weather, utilizing a fire ring is essential. A fire ring refers to a device or construction which helps contain a campfire and prevent it from spreading. Because windy weather increases the potential for a small bonfire to spread into a full-on wildfire, taking such protective measures should be a top priority. If you don’t have an existing fire ring made from metal, rocks, or bricks, you can also make your own. To do so, simply dig a shallow hole in the ground where you want your fire to take place.
Keep Fire Extinguishing Supplies Nearby
Another tip for having a campfire in windy weather is to keep fire extinguishing supplies nearby. As previously stated, windy weather can quickly turn a small spark into an uncontrollable blaze. To reduce the potential of a wildfire forming, make sure to have an ample amount of extinguishing supplies such as a large pot of water or a fire extinguisher on hand. That way, you will be able to put out the fire quickly in case it starts to get out of control.
