Fire Safety for Kids Around the Campfire
There’s nothing more Aussie than gathering the family around a campfire, sharing stories, roasting marshmallows, or cooking dinner after a long day exploring the outdoors. But with kids around, safety must always come first. A campfire can be magical and memorable, but it can also be dangerous if the right precautions aren’t taken.
At ArcMate, we’re passionate about making fire safer and more enjoyable. Here are some key fire safety tips for camping with kids:
Create a Safe Zone
Before you strike a match, set some clear boundaries. Mark out a “no-go zone” around the fire using small rocks, chairs, or even glow sticks at night. This helps kids understand where it’s safe to stand or sit and keeps little feet from wandering too close.
Teach Before You Light
Kids are curious by nature. Take a few minutes to explain what’s happening before you start the fire, why you need dry wood, how flames spread, and most importantly, why they should never touch or play near the fire. Turning it into a mini safety lesson makes them feel included and responsible.
Always Supervise
Never leave kids unattended around a campfire, even for a moment. Fires can change quickly with the wind, or sparks can fly unexpectedly. An adult should always be within arm’s reach when children are near.
Use a Raised Fire Pit
Portable fire pits like the ArcPit are a safer option than ground fires. By raising the flames off the ground, you reduce trip hazards and keep embers contained. Plus, they’re easier to control and clean up, which means less risk for curious hands and feet.
Dress for Safety
Encourage kids to wear snug-fitting clothes around the fire. Loose sleeves or synthetic fabrics can catch easily. Keep marshmallow sticks long enough so kids can roast without leaning in close.
Have an Extinguisher Close By
Always have a bucket of sand, dirt, or a fire extinguisher close to your campfire. These are essential for controlling stray sparks or emergencies. For families using the ArcPit, sand or dirt is the preferred option over water—since tipping water directly onto hot stainless steel can damage the unit and create steam hazards. Show kids where the safety gear is and explain why it’s important, so they know what to do if something unexpected happens.
Pack Away Safely
At the end of the night, make sure the fire is completely out and safe to leave. With the ArcPit, let the fire burn down to ash and naturally cool. You can carefully spread out the coals with a stick or fire poker so they die down faster, and cover with a layer of sand or dirt if available to smother any remaining embers.
Important: Never pour water directly onto the ArcPit. Rapid cooling can cause stainless steel to warp, and the sudden burst of steam can be dangerous. By allowing the fire to cool naturally, you protect both your gear and your safety.
Summary
Camping with kids is about creating memories that last a lifetime. A safe campfire is the perfect setting for stories, songs, and shared meals. With a little preparation, you can make sure those memories are happy ones—free of burns, accidents, or close calls.
At ArcMate, we believe in safe, sustainable campfires. Our ArcPit portable fire pits are designed to give families peace of mind while enjoying the great outdoors.
Further Reading:
For medically backed tips on preventing burns in children around campfires, check out the Mayo Clinic’s guide. It offers insights into common hazards, like hot tools and embers, and what steps families can take to keep little ones safe.
