BANGOR DAILY NEWS • March 2, 2024
On a cold winter night, having the means and knowledge to build a small campfire just might save your life. it’s crucial that you carry a fire-starting tool. Examples of fire starters include waterproof matches, a pocket lighter and a spark-producing device made of flint and steel, of which there are many varieties. Gather plenty of materials before you even think about striking a match. Collect wood of all sizes, from tiny twigs to big branches. The dryer, the better. Last but not least, you’ll need tinder, which is a bundle of dry, loose material that’s highly flammable. This is where you’ll aim your spark or first flame. By far, the best tinder I’ve found is natural, and it’s all over Maine: birch bark.