When a burn ban has been issued, camping can become a bit of a challenge. You may be used to gathering around a cozy fire each night and toasting marshmallows and telling stories, but that ban prevents this. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to a campfire that can be utilized when a burn ban is in effect.
One option is to use a fireless light. Fireless lights are battery operated, typically LED, and are great for creating a cozy atmosphere without the potential danger of an open flame. Most of these lights come in a variety of colors and you can use them to add some ambiance to your campsite. Some even come with additional features like being waterproof for use in rain or near a water source. They may not give you heat, but they can provide atmosphere.
If you’re looking for something a bit brighter than a fireless light you might consider using solar lamps. Solar lamps are not only cost effective but they provide ample lighting without the need for a flame. Some solar lamps are designed to be hung and provide significant illumination throughout your campsite. Others can be used on the ground or table top and provide a more intimate ambient lighting.
If you’re trying to stay true to the traditional campfire experience, heat preserving fire baskets may be your best option. These devices which resemble a charcoal briquette burn very low and slow. They provide just enough heat to keep your group cozy, while still following the rules of many burn bans. Additionally, they are smokeless and odorless so you can enjoy the nostalgia of the campfire without the worry of the smoke and smokey smell.
Finally, for a truly portable campfire experience you may want to consider using a camping stove or propane fire. Camping stoves or propane fires are designed to be lightweight and portable and can provide enough heat for both cooking and warmth. Most camping stoves have adjustable settings and come with several accessories, including pans, griddles and even Dutch ovens. With a camping stove you can enjoy the convenience of an open flame without violating a burn ban.
Camping during a burn ban can be a challenge but with a bit of creativity and these alternative solutions you can still enjoy the traditional campfire experience without the fire. From solar lamps and fireless lights to fire baskets and camping stoves there are a variety of options that can allow you to enjoy the outdoors while staying within the boundaries of the burn ban.
Are You Under A Burn Ban?
If you are planning a campfire or outdoor cooking in an area where open burning is regulated you should first make sure you are not in a burn ban. A burn ban is an order issued by a local fire official or government entity that restricts outdoor burning conditions or prohibits outdoor burning altogether.
The most important step in determining if you are in a burn ban is to check with your local fire department or other authorities such as the county health department or state forestry office. In some regions these organizations provide specific information on burns bans and fire safety warnings. Additionally, you can often find information on local burn bans on the local fire department’s website.
You can also find info on burn bans online. Most states have websites that list fire restrictions and burn bans and some may even provide daily updates.
You should also check your local news for updates on burn bans. Many times, news outlets will provide updates on burn bans as they are issued. Additionally, many news outlets provide links to the fire departments or other government entities responsible for the burn ban.
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