Must Have Gear: Fire Starter

You must have fire to survive. Fire is the camper’s TV! But more than that, fire provides the following:

· Heat to prevent hypothermia

· Means of boiling water

· Protection from predators and insects

· Means of sterilizing

· Means of cooking and smoking

· Means of drying clothes and ceramics

· Means of communication

· Means of heat treating stone and wooden tools

· Light

Listed below are some common fire starters, or ignitors. Because fire is so vital (see 10 C’s of Survival), I recommend carrying more than one ignitor in your gear.

1. Lighter (windproof a plus)

2. Matches (waterproof a plus)

3. Ferro-rod and striker

4. Wood Friction Fire tools (Bowdrill, Hand Drill, Fire Plow, Fire Saw)

5. Fire piston

6. Magnifying lens

7. Battery and steel wool

8. Potassium Permanganate and glycerin

With your fire starter, be sure to include an accelerant to catch the spark from the ignitor. Common accelerants include:

1. Cotton ball covered in petroleum jelly

2. Pitch and fatwood

3. Wax and fibers

4. Gauze and hand sanitizer

5. Dryer lint

6. Fire stick

Practice starting a fire with your tools of choice before you go out. Your life may vary well depend on it.

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