Check local fire regulations and weather conditions
Choose a safe, open area away from tents, trees, dry grass, and overhanging branches
Clear the ground down to bare soil or use an existing fire ring
Gather dry tinder, kindling, and larger firewood
Keep water, sand, or a shovel nearby
Arrange tinder loosely in the center
Build kindling around the tinder in a teepee or log-cabin shape
Light the tinder with a match or lighter
Add small sticks gradually as the fire grows
Add larger logs only after the fire is established
Never leave the fire unattended
Fully extinguish the fire with water and stir the ashes until cold
Make sure all embers are out before leaving