Campfires
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Description
A campfire is a traditional guiding activity that is still
popular with members of all ages. Campfires usually include songs
and other group activities.
Forms
If the campfire is a standalone event away
from the meeting place, an Information and Consent
for Event/Activity form is required.
Who can
participate?
Open to all
Ratio of adults to
girls
Normal ratios for activities outside of the
meeting place are required.
Guiding Manual ratios
Regulations
- Carry out a
risk assessment for the activity.
- Ensure the site warden is informed in advance and is happy with
your plans.
If the campfire is a standalone event away from the
meeting place (ie not part of a unit meeting or camp):
- The Leader must ensure that all participants under 18 have
written permission to take part from an adult with parental
responsibility.
Instructor
Qualifications
Not applicable
Useful
information
Fire safety:
- Choose an area which is away from trees,
shrubs and overhanging branches.
- Keep enough sand/earth/water nearby to
extinguish the fire.
- Never leave the fire unattended.
- Make a ring around the campfire out of stones
to contain the ash.
- Ensure girls sit a safe distance from the
fire.
Running the activity:
- You will need at least two people to run a
campfire event; one to lead the songs and activities, and one to
maintain the fire.
- If you are not experienced at building
campfires ask somebody more experienced to help you. Your
Commissioner can put you in touch with other members.
- It’s a good idea to start with a lively song
that all the girls know to get the event going. Songs with actions
are often popular.
For more detailed information and advice, see
the Girlguiding UK activity resource Let’s
hear it for music (order code 6568), which contains songs,
activity ideas and tips for leading musical events.