ENVIRONMENT

As the crisp autumn air settles in Winnipeg, it's the perfect time to embrace the great outdoors. Whether you're planning a day hike in Whiteshell Provincial Park or a weekend camping trip at Birds Hill Provincial Park, having reliable fire-starting skills is essential. In this post, we'll share some simple and effective DIY fire starter tips to ensure your outdoor adventures are always warm and cozy.

The Importance of Fire Starting Skills

• Survival: In emergency situations, fire can provide warmth, light, and a means to signal for help.

• Comfort: A campfire can transform a cold evening into a cozy experience.

• Cooking: Fire is essential for preparing meals in the wilderness (though we don't suggest solely relying on this option for cooking!).
  
  

DIY Fire Starter Ideas

1. Cotton Ball Fire Starters:
   

   • Dip cotton balls in petroleum jelly.

   • Store them in a waterproof container.

   • These fire starters are lightweight, highly flammable, and easy to ignite.

2. Dryer Lint Fire Starters:
   

   • Stuff dryer lint into a toilet paper roll.

   • This readily available material can quickly catch a flame.

3. Natural Fire Starters:
   

   • Collect fallen pine needles, pine cones, and dry twigs.

   • These natural materials can be used to start a fire, especially when combined with a commercial fire starter.

4. Bicycle Inner Tube Fire Starter:
   

   • Cut a strip of inner tube about 1 inch wide.

   • This waterproof and lightweight material can be easily ignited.

Tips for Successful Fire Starting:

• Practice makes perfect: Spend time practicing fire-starting techniques before heading out on a trip.

• Choose the right kindling: Use dry, small twigs and branches to start your fire.

• Build a proper fire lay: Arrange your kindling to allow for proper oxygen flow.

• Protect your fire: Use a fire pan or ring to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading.

• Extinguish your fire completely: Douse the fire with water and stir the ashes to ensure it's fully extinguished.

By following these tips and experimenting with DIY fire starters, you'll be well-prepared to ignite your next outdoor adventure in Winnipeg. Remember to always practice fire safety and respect local regulations.

Don't forget about pre-made fire starters!

While DIY fire starters are a great way to save money and connect with nature, sometimes you just need a reliable, pre-made option. Here are some fire starting options you can consider*:

• Firebiner by Outdoor Element - Check it out on Garage Grown Gear

• All-Weather Matches by SOL - Check them out on Garage Grown Gear

• UltraFire Knife by Renegade Outdoor - Found on Garage Grown Gear

• UCO Stormproof matches / match kits (I LOVE THEIR PRODUCTS AND USE THEM ALL THE TIME!) - Purchase from Mountain Equipment Company
  - Purchase from UCO Gear

• Pre made tinder cubes - made of sawdust and wax (make sure to choose scent-free!)
  - Such as these Coghlan's band fire sticks

Remember: When purchasing pre-made fire starters, look for products that are waterproof, windproof, and easy to ignite. *Note - we use affiliate links, and you can purchase through these links to support Backcountry Women, at no extra cost to you.

Want to learn more about fire building and other outdoor skills? Backcountry Women offers local fire building workshops. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter and check our events page for future opportunities to learn these skills hands-on.