Smudge pots were traditionally used to protect orchards from freezing.
A smudge pot is a metal container holding oil that produces a great deal of smoke when it is lit. The neck of the pot contains a piece of wood or wick that has been soaked in kerosene, diesel fuel or another oil. Combustion is regulated by a series of holes on the filler cap. Smudge pots were used to protect fruit orchards from freezing until they were replaced by cleaner orchard burners after World War II. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Examine the wick or wood piece to ensure that it is soaked with oil. Open up the fuel chamber on the smudge pot, and check if it is full enough to keep the wick or piece of wood in the neck saturated and the smudge pot burning. Fill the fuel chamber if needed and then close it.
2. Set the smudge pot on a stand or a clear ground area. Ensure that the smudge pot placement is stable to prevent it from accidentally tipping over and starting a fire. Do not place the smudge pot in an enclosed area. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
3. Adjust the flue by turning the filler cap to partially open a few holes on the cap to let oxygen into the smudge pot's combustion chamber to mix with the fumes of the fuel. Fully open holes will produce a large burst of flame when the smudge pot is lit, while partially open filler-cap holes will produce a more controlled flame.
4. Roll up long sleeves and push back long hair out of the way. Stand back at least a foot from the smudge pot as you prepare to light it; the oil fumes are volatile and will push a quick burst of flame from the smudge pot when it is first lit.
5. Light a long butane lighter, and touch its flame to the tip of the wick or piece of wood protruding from the smudge pot. Move away from the smudge pot as it begins to let out smoke. Do not touch the smudge pot after it has been lit as the metal container heats up quickly.
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