Emergency Preparedness
A fire can mean warmth, boiled water and a signal for rescue, but lighters fail in the cold and matches get wet. Carry two or three methods. A ferrocerium rod like The Friendly Swede, Wirecutter's backup fire starter, throws hot sparks wet or dry for thousands of strikes, though it takes practice. UCO Stormproof matches stay lit in wind and relight after a dunk. Sparks and flame still need something to catch, so add a tinder like InstaFire packets, which burn hot enough to light damp wood. Practice in your backyard before you need it, and keep a kit in your go bag and car. Know local fire restrictions, and never leave a fire unattended or burn indoors without a proper stove.
Why it's hereWirecutter's backup fire starter: easiest to use and most sparks of five tested; works wet, cold and at altitude for thousands of strikes.
Recommended by Wirecutter (NYT)4.6 stars on 7,444 Amazon ratings; sold by The Friendly Swede (no direct web store found).
| Rank | Product & source | Key note | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ★ Top Pick | The Friendly Swede Easy-Grip Ferro Rod Fire Starter (2-pack)Recommended by Wirecutter (NYT) | Wirecutter's backup fire starter: easiest to use and most sparks of five tested; works wet, cold and at altitude for thousands of strikes. | ~$14.99Price checked Oct 15–19, 2026at amazon.com View product | |
| Runner-up | UCO Stormproof Match Kit (25 matches + waterproof case)Recommended by Wirecutter (NYT) | Wirecutter's pick if you'd rather strike matches: stays lit in wind and relights after being doused. | ~$11.99Price checked Oct 20, 2026at ucogear.com View product | |
| Runner-up | InstaFire Fire Starter Packets (18 pouches, 1.75 oz each)Recommended by Wirecutter (NYT) | Wirecutter's fire-starter tinder pick: burns hot and long, lights wet wood; one packet can start several fires. | $28.62 – $36.90From $28.62 at InstaFire ('Fire Starter Packets (18 pack)' listing)Up to $36.90 at InstaFire ('Fire Starter Packs (18 Pack)' listing, same 18 pouches)Price checked Oct 20, 2026This link: $28.62 at instafire.com View product | |
