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Four wheelers know it’s critical to be prepared when they go off road. One area that sometimes gets taken for granted is the ability to start fires. We just assume that a book of matches or lighter will be handy when needed. That’s usually the case while in camp or in the vehicle. But what happens when you’re alone in the wild? Could you start a fire if you had to? Hikers, campers and just plain vacationers occasionally get lost and find themselves in a dangerous situation. It may never happen to you, but it’s always good to be prepared. I suggest you always carry three forms of fire-starting methods on you along with some tinder, and practice with them throughout the year. Why three methods? Redundancy, as NASA will tell you, is good. In fact, it could save your life. By carrying three forms of fire-starting material, you essentially eliminate the possibility of not being able to at least create a spark. (You still need tinder and a supply of fuel.) The importance of fire-building capability can’t be understated. Fire can be used to:
As important as the uses of fire listed above are perhaps the most important use is for comfort and companionship. Humans have been staring into a fire forever during long nights. A fire helps maintain a positive mental attitude and chase away boredom, loneliness and fear. A fire could literally save your life. Granted, only a tiny number of people get caught in survival situations each year. But those incidents can occur in many areas and in any climate.
Make up about a half dozen cotton balls and pack them in a little container. 35 mm film canisters are perfect, if you can find any. You can also use pill or aspirin bottles; many outdoor stores sells small plastic bottles that work as well. Other ways to start a fire include: - Steel wool and a battery. Fine grade (00) steel wool and a D cell work nicely. If you don’t have a D cell, try two AA batteries. You’ll drain the battery rather quickly. Assume one shot with a AA battery and maybe a couple tries on a D cell. - Magnifying glass - Easy to slip into a pocket. You need sun, however. Whatever methods you choose, make sure you practice them several times a year and under various conditions. Don’t wait until disaster hits. Between your emotional state and the weather conditions, you’ll have a heck of a time making it work. Carry your three fire starters and tinder in your pocket. While you may have extras in your vehicle, backpack and tent, you need to keep these tools on your person. You could be separated from your vehicle, backpack and even fanny pack. Tuck your materials in a pants or shirt pocket each time you step outdoors. Remember to replenish any supplies you use. Also, add a category on your preparation checklist http://www.4x4training.com/Articles/Camping/Checklist.html for “pocket fire starter.” That will remind you to add this important outdoor gear each time. Going forward, you will always be prepared to start a fire if need be. |
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Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures
Did you miss the previous article? |
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Some Upcoming Events
Here is a quick summary of upcoming events.
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Death Valley March 21-24
This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, drive past Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp at the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Much of the trip is quite remote with random or no cell service. We don't plan to stop at tourist sights you can get to in a passenger car. Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/Deathvalley.html August 2013 Off-Road Adventures Magazine: Death Valley Excursion by Denis Snow You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Deathvalley |
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Guide Book Exploration April 30- May 4
The plan is to select one of the many Guide books and do a number of the trails it describes. Most guide books are regional in nature. That allows us to link multiple trails together while reducing the amount of time on the highway. We can do mountain regions in the summer and desert regions in the winter. Check out the details and sign up on the website: Guide Book Exploration You can register directly at by clicking here. |
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Sand Clinic March 29, 2014
More details... Register for the Sand Clinic using this link. http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#SandPismo |
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Tire Repair & Hi-Lift Mini Clinic March 30, 2014
The March 30th clinic will be held near Pismo, CA. This 3 hour clinic will provide you with the knowledge and skills to repair the most common tire problems and to use a Hi-lift jack safely to aid you in the process. To drive confidently off-road learn how to:
You can find out more details on line at Tire Repair & Hi-Lift Mini Clinic:. And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TireRepair. |
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Winch Recovery Bandana & Winching DVD
The Bandana layout follows the “Vehicle Recovery Plan” with pathways to more detail. A unique section of the Bandana, gives the steps for a “Winch Rigging Check: Walk through” so that you verify every element of the rigging before you commit to the pull. Stuff this in your recovery kit and you will always be ready! Pick up or order the Winching DVD too! There is no substitute for hands on training. If you can, sign up for one of Badlands Off-Road Adventure’s Winching Clinics. Warning – the Bandana and DVD are not a substitute for proper training and use of quality equipment that is used within the bounds of their safe working load. We advise you to use the information provided in both the Winching Recovery Bandana and the "Basic to Advanced Winching and Recovery DVD" at your own risk. We cannot control the quality and specifications of the equipment used and the methods actually employed. |
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Winch Recovery Bandana Order Button
Order a Basic to Advanced Winching & Recovery DVD too!
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