Prior to lighting a fire, what is an important step regarding area cleanliness?

Maintaining an uncluttered environment before lighting a fire is essential for safety and efficiency. Removing all trash and debris ensures that flammable materials that could unintentionally ignite are not present. This step minimizes the risk of an uncontrollable fire and helps in maintaining a safe zone around the fire area. Furthermore, by eliminating unnecessary items, it becomes easier to monitor the fire and manage any hazards that may arise. Although vacuuming, wiping surfaces, and organizing tools can contribute to overall cleanliness, they do not specifically address the immediate fire safety concerns posed by trash and debris.