Keep It Simple: Firelighting the Easy Way
Helen Russell • 14 October 2025
Lighting a fire doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re introducing Squirrels to their first flames or giving Explorers a chance to cook outdoors, sometimes the best approach is the simplest one. This month, Bushscout.UK is celebrating simple success - because every confident spark builds lasting outdoor skills.
Why We Love Fires
At Bushscout, we’ll happily admit it - we’re a bit obsessed with fires. From flint and steel to friction fire and everything in between, we’ve tried (and taught) more weird and wonderful ways to light a fire than most people could imagine.
But when it comes to the Bushscout.UK curriculum, we always return to our core motto:
Simple, Safe, Successful Scouting
That phrase underpins everything we do. Our aim isn’t just to show off clever tricks; it’s to help Scout volunteers build confidence and consistency. Whether you’re leading Squirrels, Beavers, Cubs, Scouts or Explorers, the goal is the same - to give young people successful experiences outdoors, every time.
Why Simple is Sometimes Best
There’s a certain satisfaction in mastering complex fire-lighting techniques. But when you’re running a section night, sometimes the best approach is the simplest one.
So this month, we’re giving you permission to make firelighting easy.
No pressure, no flint dust in your fingernails, no struggling with damp wood — just a warm, crackling fire and happy young people.
All you’ll need is:
🔥 Kiln-dried kindling – available from most big supermarkets or garden centres
🔥 Natural(ish) fire starters – often sold near BBQ or camping sections
🔥 A lighter or some matches – yes, really!
That’s it. No guilt, no gimmicks. Just a reliable fire to gather around for stories, songs or s’mores.
Watch the Demo
To see how simple can still be effective, here’s a video from Bushscout.UK National Manager Lee and Bushscout.UK Youth Ambassador Matthew, filmed for Scoutadelic back in 2022.
It’s a great reminder that confidence comes from success - and that every fire lit is a skill learned.
👉 Watch the video here
Keep Learning with Bushscout
If you’d like to go beyond the basics (and maybe try some of those weird and wonderful methods we mentioned earlier), subscribe to our newsletter.
We’ll be sharing:
- Upcoming Bushscout.UK courses for adult volunteers in Scouting
- Practical tips and resources to support your outdoor programme
- A monthly spark of inspiration to keep your Scouting adventures burning bright
So go on - light that fire the easy way, enjoy the moment, and remember: simple doesn’t mean basic. It means successful.
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