Can old ashes make new fire

A great question about fire and ashes!

In short, yes, old ashes can make new fire, but with some limitations.

Ashes are the remains of a fire that has burned out, and they can still contain some combustible materials, such as:

1. Unburned fuel: Small particles of wood, coal, or other combustible materials that didn't fully burn during the previous fire.
2. Char: Carbon-rich residue that can still burn if heated to a high enough temperature.
3. Embers: Glowing, hot particles that can still ignite if exposed to oxygen and a spark.

To make new fire from old ashes, you'll need to:

1. Collect the ashes: Gather the ashes from the previous fire, making sure to remove any large, non-combustible materials like rocks or metal.
2. Prepare the ashes: Sift or blow through the ashes to remove any large particles or debris. This will help ensure that the ashes are well-mixed and evenly distributed.
3. Add tinder: Mix the ashes with some tinder material, such as dry leaves, grass, or small twigs. This will help the ashes ignite more easily.
4. Add kindling: Add some kindling material, such as small sticks or thin branches, to the ashes and tinder. This will help the fire grow once it's ignited.
5. Ignite the fire: Use a spark, flame, or other ignition source to light the ashes and tinder. Once the fire is burning well, you can add more kindling and larger logs to sustain it.

Some tips to keep in mind:

• Old ashes may not be as effective at making new fire as fresh, dry tinder and kindling.
• The quality of the ashes can affect the ease of ignition. Ashes from a fire that burned at a high temperature may be more likely to ignite than those from a fire that burned at a lower temperature.
• It's always a good idea to use a fire starter or other ignition aid to help get the fire going, especially if the ashes are old or damp.

I hope that helps!