Learn How To Burn

The best fires start with the right wood

- Paul Wilkenson

Fire is considered one of mankind’s greatest inventions, but it was likely discovered by ancient people after witnessing a brush fire or a nearby lightning strike. The ability to re-create and manage fire no doubt changed the course of human history by providing many benefits to lengthen early man’s lifespan. Because of it, he was able to cook his meals and avoid food-borne parasites and bacteria; he was able to extend the day by adding light to his camp, thereby warding off predators; and he was able to adapt to harsh winter climates by keeping warm around a fire. These benefits haven’t changed much in the last million years, as humans today gather around the light of the fire to cook food and keep warm in relative safety.

THE ELEMENTS OF FIRE

As powerful as fire is and as coveted as it is for the comforts of all of humanity for millennia, it is a quite simple spectacle. The real discovery by our ancient forebearers is the realization that there are only three things needed to start a fire: a fuel source, air, and heat. Oxygen and a heat source are relatively simple to come by. The air is all around us and readily available, and a prepared person is always ready to start a fire. Lighters, matches or even a parabolic mirror — there are dozens of ways of producing a spark, and you should never be without at least two. The trick to having a quality fire lies with the fuel. The better the fuel, the better the fire. In an emergency, however, anything that will burn can be used, but nothing will draw your primitive instincts back to your cave-dwelling ancestors more than a roaring wood-burning fire.

WHY WOOD BURNS