Fires & Cooking Scoutcraft Badge

The Fires & Cooking Scoutcraft Badge introduces a scout to catering for themselves and cooking for their patrol.

Badge Requirements

Fires & Cooking

1. Carry out an experiment to determine the burning properties of at least three different types of wood for cooking fires and discuss their characteristics and the purposes for which each should be used.
2. Demonstrate three different types of cooking fires in use and explain the advantages of each. Know the dangers of veld/bush fires and demonstrate how to take safety precautions when lighting, using and extinguishing fires in the open. Demonstrate methods of extinguishing flames.
3. Make a camp fireplace in the open that is suited to the natural surroundings or make a conservation stove. Make a fire in it, and cook the following for at least four people:
   1. Porridge.
   2. Hunter's Stew.
      OR
      Make a conservation stove and cook the following for at least four people:
   3. Porridge.
   4. Hunter's Stew.
4. Discuss the importance of creating a balanced menu, including a vegetarian/vegan menu, and the health benefits of a vegetarian/vegan menu.
   1. Draw up a menu for a three-course breakfast, lunch, and supper.
   2. Draw up the food quantities and cost these at a local store.
5. Demonstrate the following:
   1. The setting of a table in camp or indoors for a lunch or a supper.
   2. How to prevent accidents in the kitchen at camp and indoors.
   3. The use of weights and measures in the kitchen.
6. Make yourself a damper or a twist.
7. Using the principles of the three R's (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), properly dispose of rubbish, clean utensils, and leave a safe, clean cooking area and fireplace.

Safe From Harm: Whilst completing the requirements for this badge, Scouts must not be placed in hazardous or dangerous situations under any circumstances. All activities must comply with SCOUTS South Africa Safe from Harm framework and be supervised by responsible adults. Participation should offer meaningful learning or service experiences while ensuring the Scout's safety and well-being at all times.

Badge Requirements in printable PDF format

• Fires & Cooking Scoutcraft Badge (PDF)

Next Steps - Where This Badge Leads

Completion of this badge is required for the following Scoutcraft and/or Interest Badges:

• Cook Scout Interest Badge

Explore More Opportunities

• My Scout Journey - An overview of your path in Scouting - from joining to earning top awards like the Springbok Award.
• Scout Advancement Programme - The core steps Scouts follow to build skills and earn theme badges and advancement badges.
• Scoutcraft Badges - Aimed at Scouts 11 to 13. Fun, hands-on badges that build confidence, essential skills, and lay the foundation for Interest Badges.
• Scout Interest Badges - Aimed at Scouts 13 and older. Badges that promote personal growth through exploring interests, hobbies, and skills.