Most campers know that a good camping experience is a safe one. Campers and backyard chefs alike know that a fire ring keeps fire in its place. The fire ring protects the campsites and the woodlands that we all enjoy. Homeowners should have a fire ring if they wish to have a wood fire for cooking or marshmallow roasting. Hunters and fisherman should keep one handy for that fire where they cook up the day’s catch.

Fire rings are generally made of steel and act as a guard against the unwanted spread of fire. These days many areas suffer from drought conditions. Dry grass and shrubs quickly become kindling in woodland areas and backyards. A fire ring ensures that the fire stays where you want it and does not burn down woods or houses. It also provides a natural barrier to keep children away from dangerous flames.

After a fire has been put out, the fire ring remains in place, ensuring that smoking embers do not blow away and cause damage. You can go to sleep in your tent, camper or bedroom without wondering if a fire might spread during the night (be sure to douse your campfire before going to sleep).

This device also saves campers and backyard chefs a lot of time and effort. They don’t have to dig a trench or provide another type of firebreak. The fire ring is a one-piece wonder, providing a fast solution to a tricky problem.

Forest fires ravage countless acres on average, a year. They destroy forests, burn down houses and take away the habitat of many animals. Untold wildlife is killed each year by this menace. Much of this is preventable. As Smoky the Bear would say, remember only you can prevent forest fires. Play it safe on the trail, by the lake or at home. Use a fire ring around your campfire.

And don’t forget the marshmallows!