Check local fire rules and weather conditions
Choose a safe, open area away from tents, trees, and dry brush
Clear a wide circle of leaves, grass, and debris
Place rocks in a ring if allowed and appropriate
Gather tinder, kindling, and larger firewood
Keep water, sand, or a shovel nearby
Put tinder in the center of the fire area
Build a small teepee or log cabin shape with kindling around the tinder
Light the tinder with a match or lighter
Add kindling gradually as the flame grows
Add larger logs only after the fire is steady
Never leave the fire unattended
Keep the fire small and controlled
Extinguish the fire completely with water
Stir the ashes and add more water until everything is cold
Check for remaining heat before leaving