How to Start a Fireplace Fire: Gather Materials, Create a Bed of Kindling, and Monitor the Fire

Introduction

Whether you’re cozying up to a warm fire on a cold winter night or enjoying an evening outdoors around a campfire, there’s nothing like the warmth and comfort of a crackling fire. However, getting that fire started can sometimes be tricky. This article will provide step-by-step instructions on how to start a fire in your fireplace safely and efficiently.

It’s important to note that even with a fireplace, starting a fire requires specific materials and techniques. To begin, you’ll need some kindling, dry logs, matches or a lighter, and newspaper.

Gather the Necessary Materials

Before attempting to start your fireplace fire, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Kindling: Kindling is small, easily combustible wood that helps get the fire going. It typically consists of sticks and twigs no thicker than a pencil.
• Dry Logs: Once the kindling is lit, you’ll need larger logs to sustain the fire. Make sure the logs are completely dry; wet logs will smother the fire.
• Matches or Lighter: You’ll need something to light the kindling and newspaper. Matches or a lighter are both good options.
• Newspaper: Newspaper helps get the fire going and provides fuel until the kindling and logs catch.

Create a Bed of Kindling

Once you have the necessary materials, you’re ready to begin building your fire. Start by placing the kindling in the bottom of the fireplace in a bed-like shape. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), “The most effective way to start a fire is to arrange medium-sized kindling in a loose teepee or log cabin pattern over crumpled newspaper.”¹ Make sure the kindling is spaced out enough to allow air to circulate between the pieces.

Add Logs to the Fireplace

Next, place the logs on top of the kindling in a crisscross pattern. Again, make sure the logs are spaced out so air can circulate throughout the pile. According to the NFPA, “The more air that can reach the burning material, the better the fire will burn.”²

Light the Fire

Now it’s time to light the fire. Start by taking a corner of the newspaper and folding it into a square. Place the newspaper in the center of the kindling and logs, making sure it’s touching the kindling. Use the matches or lighter to light the corner of the newspaper. As the newspaper starts to burn, the kindling and logs should catch fire.

Feed the Fire

Once the kindling and logs are burning, you can add more kindling and logs as needed. This will help keep the fire going and maintain the desired temperature. Be sure to add only dry logs to avoid smothering the fire.

Monitor the Fire

Finally, it’s important to keep an eye on the fire to ensure it doesn’t get out of control. If you’re using a fireplace, make sure to open the flue before lighting the fire to ensure proper ventilation. Never leave a fire unattended and always have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water available in case of an emergency.

Conclusion

Starting a fire in your fireplace doesn’t have to be intimidating. By gathering the necessary materials, creating a bed of kindling, adding logs to the fireplace, lighting the fire, and feeding it as needed, you can easily get your fireplace fire going. Just remember to monitor the fire closely to ensure it doesn’t get out of control.