“In England, fires should only be lit where they are permitted by the landowner and in a safe, designated area. At Nathan’s Heaven Woodland, permission has been given by the landowner for Forest School fires to take place within our designated fire circle, subject to our risk assessment, site rules, weather conditions and relevant fire-safety guidance.”

A temporary fire site should be left as close as possible to its original condition once the fire has been safely extinguished. The aim is to leave no trace, while making sure that the surrounding woodland and wildlife are not unnecessarily disturbed.

After safely extinguishing the fire, as described in Unit 2 – 2.3, I would begin clearing the temporary fire site.

Any remaining ash, charcoal and burnt pieces of wood would be carefully checked to make sure they are completely cold. Once safe, these would be removed from the temporary fire area and dealt with according to the site requirements. This may mean removing them completely.

If the ground surface or leaf litter was moved when preparing the fire site, I would carefully replace it so that the area blends back into its surroundings. Any soil or natural material removed from the site would be returned to where it came from, without disturbing additional areas of the woodland.

All firewood, tinder, cooking equipment and other Forest School equipment would be removed from the site. I would also check the surrounding area for stray ash, charcoal or other evidence that could have been carried away from the original fire.

The area would then be checked for any signs of damage to vegetation, roots or the woodland floor. I would avoid adding extra leaf litter or disturbing the surrounding habitat simply to make the area look untouched.

Before leaving, I would carry out a final visual check of the whole area to make sure that:

• The fire is completely extinguished and cold.
• No hot ash, embers or charcoal remain.
• All equipment and unused fuel has been removed.
• No rubbish has been left behind.
• Any displaced natural material has been returned appropriately.
• The surrounding vegetation and woodland floor have not been unnecessarily disturbed.
• There is minimal visible evidence that a fire has taken place.

The aim is to leave the temporary fire site safe, clean and as close as reasonably possible to its original condition.