If roasting marshmallows by a campfire is something you’ll be doing this summer, be careful. Campfires can be fun—and dangerous. To help make sure your evening doesn’t lead to disaster, always keep your fire small, and follow some basic safety rules from the National Wildlife Federation:

1.      To start your fire, use dead pieces of soft wood lying around.

2.      Keep water close by so you can extinguish the fire immediately if needed.

3.      Clear the area around your fire, removing any debris that could ignite. A recommended minimum distance is 10 feet away from anything that could catch fire. If you’re camping, build your fire at least 15 feet from your tent and gear.

4.      Always build your fire inside a fireplace, stove, or fire ring.

5.      Never leave a lit fire unattended.

6.      Make sure a fire is completely out before you leave.

To make sure your fire has been completely extinguished, pour water over the fire, then stir the ashes and pour water over the ashes again. Repeat this until you’re certain the ashes are cold.

If you follow these safety tips, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is whether you have enough marshmallows to go around.