When relying on fire as a primary heat source or for cooking, flames should always be used with caution, especially outdoors. Wind driven fires are a huge problem in the dry hills of California. Wildfires often start with one tiny spark, and are most destructive; know local fire conditions before burning, creating campfires or cooking outdoors.
Get a free campfire permit from a nearby ranger station; they always expire at the end of the calendar year.
Find California: National Forests and BLM Offices
Windproof Lighters & Torches
Camping Matches
Fatwood & Flint