06/04/2026
A campfire can still hold heat long after the flames are gone. That is what catches people off guard this time of year because once the fire looks calm and the night winds down, most people assume it is safe to leave behind. Meanwhile, heat can still sit underneath the ash bed for hours, waiting for the right conditions to flare back up again.
As more people head out camping, spend time at the lake, or gather around backyard fires, taking a few extra minutes before leaving the site matters more than people realize.
One of the easiest ways to remember it is simple. Soak it, stir it, touch it.
Fully soak the fire with water, not just the visible flames. Stir the ashes, coals, and wood to expose hidden heat underneath, then carefully check that everything is completely cool before walking away. If it still feels warm to the touch, there is still heat holding underneath.
It is also important to pay close attention to current conditions before you light anything and while the fire is still going. Fire bans and restrictions can change quickly this time of year, and a fire should never be left unattended, even for a few minutes.
A few extra minutes before leaving the fire behind can prevent a much bigger problem later on.