A fire pan is a pan for holding or conveying fire which is often used as method for building a Leave No Trace fire.

Background

Fire pans were initially used by river guides to minimize the impact of their fires but they are becoming increasingly popular with backpackers and other outdoor users. The pan is usually a metal tray with rigid sides at least three inches high such as a metal oil drain pan or a backyard barbecue grill.

Purpose

The use of a fire pan reduces the impact to the ground, vegetation and rocks, and it's compact size results in the burning of less wood. Fire pans also allow users to easily burn their accumulated garbage. Combustible items will be reduced to ash. A fire pan user can Leave No Trace of their previous fire because the ashes can be collected and buried.

Usage

When using a fire pan care should be taken so the heat does not scorch vegetation or sterilize the ground, therefore it is necessary to elevate the pan with rocks or line it with several inches of mineral soil. Used in winter a fire pan can be placed atop limbs or logs to keep the pan from sinking into the snow. A fire pan can be more convenient than a traditional campfire because it allows you to pick up your fire and move it around should the need arise.

External links

• Using Fire Pans for Minimum Impact Campfires

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Source: adapted by the editor from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia; from the article "Fire pan". Image Credit.

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