A Pediatrician’s Guide for S’more Fun Around the Campfire

Campfires create lasting memories, but they also bring risks, especially for children. Here’s how to keep your family safe while helping prevent wildfires!

Why Campfire Safety Matters

Children are naturally drawn to flames, the light, the warmth and even the sparks. Unfortunately, campfires are a common cause of burns in kids each year. In California, they also pose wildfire dangers when not properly managed. Most of these injuries and fires are preventable with clear rules, supervision and a little preparation.

Before You Light the Fire

Check for restrictions

• Before camping or lighting a backyard fire, confirm local fire regulations
• Many California areas require a Campfire Permit or suspend all open flames during high-risk conditions
• You can verify the current rules and get permits through CAL FIRE or ReadyforWildfire.org

Pick a safe location

• Use a designated fire ring whenever possible. If not, choose a flat, open area clear of brush, leaves and low-hanging branches
• CAL FIRE recommends clearing at least five feet around the fire down to mineral soil

Prepare your tools

• Always have a bucket of water, a shovel and, if possible, a hose nearby
• Teach kids that these are safety tools, not toys

Set clear boundaries

• Before lighting the fire, explain the “fire circle” rule: children must stay several feet back unless an adult invites them closer
• Make sure they know never to run, throw objects or poke the fire without help

While the Fire Burns

Keep it small and supervised. A compact campfire is easier to control and safer for kids and at least one adult should stay with the fire at all times.

Avoid accelerants

• Never use gasoline, lighter fluid or similar products. These can cause flare-ups and serious burns

Mind clothing and behavior

• Have kids wear snug sleeves and avoid flammable materials. If roasting marshmallows, use long sticks, keep a steady stance and remind children not to wave or fling hot food

Teach fire etiquette

• Older children can help place logs or stir ashes, but only with adult supervision. This teaches responsibility and respect for fire

After the Fun

Extinguish completely

• Use the “drown, stir, feel” method: pour water until hissing stops, stir the ashes, and feel with the back of your hand to confirm it’s cold. If it’s warm, repeat the process

Leave no trace

• Remove debris, scatter cool ashes, and make sure the area looks as safe as when you arrived. Don’t burn trash, cans or glass—they can explode or leave dangerous residue

Review safety drills

• Teach kids what to do in an emergency: if clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll, covering the face while rolling until flames are out

In Simple Terms, Here is What to Remind Your Child

• Don’t go near the fire unless an adult says yes
• Stay at least six feet away from the flames
• Never throw anything into the fire
• Stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch fire
• Help make sure the fire is completely out before leaving

Final Thoughts

Campfires can be fun! Glowing faces, shared stories and the smell of toasted marshmallows - and with a few precautions, that fun stays safe. Always check CAL FIRE’s latest guidance, supervise closely and teach your children to respect fire as both powerful and beautiful. Stay safe, enjoy nature and protect the forests that make those campfire nights possible!

Helpful Links

CAL FIRE Campfire Safety Tips
CAL FIRE Fire Safety Outreach
California Campfire Permit Info

 

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Natalie Pardo, DO, MPH

Pediatric Resident

Dr. Natalie Pardo is a California native who comes to Valley Children's from California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine and is in her second year of Postgraduate Residency. Dr. Pardo is an advocate for food security and follows a care philosophy of providing an educational foundation to help patients achieve their health goals. Learn more about Dr. Pardo here.