Quick Answer
Use a fire for signaling when you need to be seen or heard by rescuers, and for cooking when you need to sustain yourself during an extended stay in the wilderness. Prioritize signaling during the day when visibility is better, and cooking at night when warmth and food are essential.
Signaling with Fire
When signaling with fire, use a fire that is visible from a distance, such as a large, burning fire or a fire with a smoke signal. A fire with a smoke signal can be created by adding green leaves or wet wood to a fire, which produces thick, white smoke that rises high into the air. Use a fire with a smoke signal during the day when rescuers are more likely to see it, and consider creating a signal fire on a ridge or high point to make it more visible.
Cooking with Fire
When cooking with fire, prioritize a fire that is controlled and contained, such as a campfire or a pit fire. A campfire can be built in a fire ring or pit, and should be at least 15 feet away from any flammable materials. Use a cooking grate or grill to cook food over a controlled flame, and consider building a fire that is at least 3 feet in diameter to provide enough heat for cooking.
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