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Writer's pictureAaron Schmaus

Wet weather fire starting

Starting a fire in wet conditions can be a difficult task, especially if you don't have access to modern fire-starting tools. However, with the right techniques and materials, it's possible to start a fire even in wet weather. In this blog post, we'll go over some natural methods for starting a fire in wet conditions.

  1. Gather dry materials: The most important step in starting a fire in wet conditions is to gather dry materials. Look for dry leaves, grass, twigs, and small branches that are protected from the rain. You can also look for materials that are naturally resistant to moisture, such as cedar or pine. One way to help dry out tinder a little is to put it close to your body for a few hours to let your body heat remove some moisture. `

  2. Use a fire plow: A fire plow is a simple tool that you can use to start a fire using friction. You'll need a piece of dry wood and a piece of softwood, such as cedar or pine. Use the dry wood as a plow and the softwood as a fireboard. Rub the plow back and forth on the fireboard, creating a small pile of sawdust. Once you have a good amount of sawdust, add some dry leaves and grass, and blow on the sawdust to start a fire.

  3. Use a fire bow/bow drill: A fire bow is another tool you can use to start a fire using friction. You'll need a stick and a bow drill. Use the bow to spin the drill, creating friction and heat. Once you have a spark, add dry leaves and grass, and blow on the spark to start a fire.

  4. Use a fire-starting kit: Fire-starting kits are specially designed to help you start a fire in wet conditions. These kits usually include waterproof matches, fire starters, and a fire steel. You can purchase them premade but they are really easy to make before going out into the woods. These can be a great option if you're camping in wet conditions.

  5. Use a magnifying lens: If you have a magnifying lens, glasses or a clear plastic bag filled with water, you can use it to start a fire. Focus the sun's rays on a pile of dry leaves and grass, and the heat will start a fire.

  6. Look for shelter: One of the most important things you can do when trying to start a fire in wet conditions is to look for shelter. Find a spot that is protected from the rain, such as a cave or a large tree. This will give you a dry spot to build your fire.

  7. Keep it small: When starting a fire in wet conditions, it's important to keep it small. A small fire is easier to control and will consume less oxygen, making it less likely to go out.

  8. Keep it going: Once you have a small fire started, it's important to keep it going. Add small, dry materials to the fire, and keep it protected from the wind and rain.

  9. Have patience: Starting a fire in wet conditions can be a challenging task. It may take time, so be patient and keep trying different methods.

Starting a fire in wet conditions can be tough, but it is possible with the right techniques and materials.Practicing before you are in a wet situation is definitely advised. Just remember to g


ather dry materials, use a fire plow, fire bow, fire-starting kit, magnifying lens, fire starter and look for shelter, keep it small, keep it going, and have patience. Remember to always be safe and aware of your surroundings when starting a fire.


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