What is the 'drown, stir, drown, feel' method for campfire safety?

✓ Accepted answer

The drown, stir, drown, feel method is a four-step protocol recommended by the US Forest Service and Smokey Bear to ensure campfires and coals are completely extinguished before leaving an area unattended.

• Drown: Pour sufficient water over the fire and coals until they are thoroughly soaked. Water is the most reliable extinguishing agent for outdoor fires, so use plenty of it rather than just a splash.
• Stir: Use a stick, metal tool, or shovel to mix the wet ash and embers. This ensures the water reaches all burning pockets and coals that might still be glowing beneath the surface, preventing them from reigniting later.
• Drown Again: Add more water to the mixture until the pile hisses and steams, indicating residual heat is dissipating. This second application helps cool deep-seated embers that stirring may have exposed.
• Feel: Carefully place the back of your hand near the ashes to check for heat. If the area feels warm to the touch, repeat the drown and stir steps. The rule is simple: if it is too hot to touch, it is too hot to leave.
• Apply to Grills: This method also applies to hot coals from outdoor grilling. Always dispose of coals in metal containers and ensure they are completely cold and doused before taking out the trash.
• Why It Matters: According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), campfires and outdoor grills are leading causes of residential fires during peak camping seasons. Following this protocol reduces the risk of smoldering debris starting a wildfire.

admin · 2026-10-09 13:43:45