Select Your Charcoal
There are various types of charcoal, each with different properties. However, when it comes to lighting a live fire, you want to go for charcoal that is easy to ignite, such as briquette charcoal. Briquette charcoal comes in handy, pre-shaped blocks and is easy to light with either newspaper or fire starters. It is ideal for beginners since it is easier to control and burns steadily for an extended period.
Prepare Your Fire Pit
Before lighting your charcoal, you need to prepare your fire pit. Choose a location that is well ventilated, far enough from trees, dry grass, and anything combustible. Ensure there is ample space around the fire pit to prevent any accidental fires. A dense, flat surface such as sand, dirt, or stones is ideal for a fire pit surface.
Assemble The Charcoal
Arrange the briquette charcoal in a pyramid shape in the center of the fire pit. Ensure to leave some space around the charcoal so that the fire can spread evenly. You can add a few pieces of wooden kindling to the base of your charcoal pyramid for extra heat and flame as the fire starts.
Light the Charcoal
The best way to light a charcoal fire is to use lighter fluid or an electric starter. If using lighter fluid, pour enough fluid over the briquette charcoal to soak it well. Allow the fluid to soak into the charcoal for a minute or two, then light it with a match or a lighter. Stand back as the fluid ignites, and the fire will leap into life.
If you’re using an electric starter, place it in the center of the pyramid and plug it into the power source. After a few minutes, the charcoal should start to smolder and ignite.
Let the Charcoal Burn
Once the charcoal is lit, you need to let it burn for a few minutes. It will start as a small flame at the bottom of the pyramid and will gradually spread to the top. If you notice the flames starting to die out or the charcoal not burning evenly, give it a gentle poke using a poker or a stick.
Add More Charcoal
After about 10-15 minutes, when the charcoal is burning steadily, you can add more charcoal to keep the fire going. Use tongs to carefully place the charcoal on top of the burning charcoal, maintaining the pyramid shape. Add a few more pieces of kindling to the center of your newly added charcoal to help it ignite.
Enjoy the Heat and Light
Once the fire is burning satisfactorily, sit back and enjoy the warmth and light. It is advisable to keep an eye on the fire, so it does not spread beyond the fire pit. Always practice fire safety and make sure that the fire is extinguished entirely before leaving it unattended.
In Conclusion
Lighting a live fire with charcoal is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Remember, when preparing to light the fire pit, pick a location that is safe and well ventilated. Use briquette charcoal, electric starter, or lighter fluid to ignite the charcoal. Allow the charcoal to burn for a few minutes before adding more charcoal to keep the fire going. Practice fire safety and keep an eye on the fire while enjoying the warmth and light.