University of Utah Health provided guidance earlier this month regarding campfire safety to prevent serious injuries. While campfires are a staple of outdoor activities, thousands of people are treated in emergency departments for related burns each year, with young children being among the most common patients.
Risks of campfire burns
Many injuries occur while families are setting up camp or when children wander near fire pits that remain hot from previous use. Even after a fire appears extinguished, hot embers can remain dangerous for 12 to 14 hours.
Safe clothing choices for camping
To prevent burns, experts suggested wearing snug-fitting clothing when cooking over stoves or campfires. It was advised to avoid fabrics such as rayon, acrylic, and cotton blends because these materials can ignite easily and burn rapidly.
Individuals should also be cautious with clothing treated to be non-flammable, as these items can become flammable after multiple washes. The guide recommended wearing clothing that does not require being pulled over the head, as this style can be difficult to remove if it catches fire.
Maintaining a safety perimeter
A safety perimeter, or circle of safety, should be established around the fire pit. Experts recommended maintaining at least a three-foot safety zone and noted that adults should always supervise children near a fire.
Extinguishing fires and managing embers
Safety preparations should include keeping a bucket of water or another water source near the fire pit to extinguish flames or cool coals. Before going to sleep or leaving a campsite, it is important to douse the fire completely and ensure all embers are cool to the touch.
Emergency response procedures
For emergencies involving clothing, children and adults should know the Stop, Drop, and Roll method. If a fire involves an accelerant like gasoline, the recommendation was to use a heavy blanket or appropriate material to smother the flames and call emergency services immediately.
