Introduction
Making a fire starter is a useful skill to have, whether you enjoy camping, hiking, or just want to be prepared for emergencies. With a few simple materials and some basic knowledge, you can create a fire starter that will help you ignite a fire easily and quickly. In this article, we will explore the materials and steps required to make an effective fire starter.
Materials Used
To make a fire starter, you will need the following materials:
1. Cotton Balls: Cotton balls are excellent fire starters as they catch fire easily and burn for a decent amount of time.
2. Petroleum Jelly: Petroleum jelly, also known as Vaseline, is a flammable substance that helps ignite and sustain a fire.
3. Container: You will need a small container to hold the cotton balls and petroleum jelly mixture.
4. Spoon or Stick: A spoon or stick will be used to mix the cotton balls and petroleum jelly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make a fire starter:
1. Prepare the Mixture: Take a handful of cotton balls and spread them out. Using a spoon or stick, apply a generous amount of petroleum jelly to each cotton ball. Ensure that the cotton balls are thoroughly coated with the petroleum jelly.
2. Store the Fire Starters: Place the petroleum jelly-coated cotton balls in a small container. You can use an old film canister, an Altoids tin, or any other small, airtight container that can hold the fire starters securely.
3. Seal the Container: Close the container tightly to prevent the petroleum jelly from drying out.
4. Label and Store: It is a good practice to label the container with the date of preparation. Store the fire starters in a cool, dry place until you need them.
Using the Fire Starters
To use the fire starters you have made, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Fire Pit: Choose a safe location for your fire pit and clear away any debris or flammable materials.
2. Arrange the Firewood: Stack your firewood in a teepee or log cabin style, leaving enough space for airflow.
3. Place the Fire Starter: Take one of the fire starters you made and place it in the center of the fire pit.
4. Ignite the Fire Starter: Use a lighter or matches to ignite the fire starter. The petroleum jelly will catch fire easily and sustain the flame.
5. Add Firewood: As the fire starter burns, gradually add more firewood to build up the fire. Ensure proper ventilation to keep the fire burning.
Conclusion
Making your own fire starter is a simple and effective way to ensure you can start a fire when needed. By using cotton balls coated with petroleum jelly, you create a fire starter that ignites easily and burns for a sufficient amount of time. Remember to store your fire starters in a safe place and label them for future use. With this knowledge, you can confidently embark on your outdoor adventures or be prepared for any emergency situations that may arise.
References
– www.survivopedia.com
– www.outdoorlife.com
– www.survivalistboards.com
