How to Start a Fire with an Aluminum Can & a Chocolate Bar

Step 1: Rub chocolate on the bottom of the can
Rub the chocolate all over the bottom of the can.Show more

Step 2: Wipe the chocolate off
Wipe the chocolate off with a towel, cloth, or paper, rubbing and polishing as you wipe.

Warning
Do not eat the chocolate after it's been in contact with the aluminum – the residue may be toxic.

Step 3: Repeat
Repeat this process several times until the bottom of the can shines.

Tip
The can has been polished enough when it shines and reflects like a mirror.

Step 4: Angle the can
Angle the can in direct sunlight. Find a direct ray of sunlight and angle the bottom of the can so that it reflects the sun's rays.

Step 5: Place your tinder
Place your tinder – dry leaves, sticks, or paper – in a spot where you want your fire.

Step 6: Reflect a beam of sunlight
Reflect the concentrated beam off the can and onto the tinder, similar to how you might with a magnifying glass and a leaf.

Step 7: Continue to hold the beam
Hold the beam on the tinder until you see smoke. As soon as the tinder starts to burn, add wood to build your fire around it.

Did You Know?
Wildfire severity has increased and fire frequency has decreased during the past 200 years.