AY Honors/Fuel Stove/Answer Key/en

Fuel Stove

Skill Level

2

Year

2025

Version

21.10.2025

Approval authority

Australian Union

1

Define what a fuel stove is and identify at least five types.

Trainer’s Overview
This first requirement helps Pathfinders understand the foundational concepts of fuel stoves. It sets the stage for later practical and safety-based learning. The goal is to understand:

• What a fuel stove is
• Why it’s used
• The different types based on fuel, design, and purpose

A brief class talk, demonstration, or visual presentation will support this learning.

What is a Fuel Stove?
A fuel stove is a portable cooking device that uses a fuel source (such as gas, alcohol, or solid fuel) to produce controlled heat for cooking or boiling water. Unlike open campfires, fuel stoves offer:

• Greater fuel efficiency
• Controlled flame
• Portability and faster setup
• Usability in no-fire zones (e.g., during fire bans)

These stoves are widely used in camping, backpacking, emergencies, military use, and exploration.

Key Features of Fuel Stoves

• Fuel Source: What powers the stove — gas, liquid, or solid
• Burner Type: Open flame, pressurized jet, wick-based, etc.
• Portability: Most can be packed into a small container
• Ignition: Matches, lighter, or built-in piezo spark
• Control: Some stoves allow flame size control

Five Types of Fuel Stoves
Here are five widely used types, along with a brief explanation:

1. Canister Gas Stove (Butane/Propane Mix)

• Fuel: Pressurized canister (e.g., IsoButane mix)
• Common Brands: Jetboil, MSR PocketRocket
• Usage: Backpacking, light camping
• Pros: Lightweight, fast boil, easy to use
• Cons: Less reliable in freezing temperatures

2. Liquid Fuel Stove (White Gas or Shellite)

• Fuel: White gas (e.g., Coleman Fuel), Shellite
• Common Brands: MSR WhisperLite, Coleman Dual-Fuel
• Usage: Long expeditions, cold-weather camping
• Pros: Works in cold; fuel is refillable
• Cons: Heavier; requires priming and maintenance

3. Alcohol Stove

• Fuel: Methylated spirits (denatured alcohol)
• Homemade Example: “Can Stove” (built from soda cans)
• Usage: Ultralight hikers, emergency kits
• Pros: Simple, quiet, fuel widely available
• Cons: No flame control, slower boil time

4. Solid Fuel Stove

• Fuel: Hexamine tablets, Esbit cubes
• Usage: Military rations, survival kits
• Pros: Tiny, lightweight, easy storage
• Cons: Residue left on pots, not great for long cooking

5. Wood-Burning Backpacking Stove

• Fuel: Twigs, dry leaves, small sticks
• Design: Contains a small combustion chamber
• Usage: Bushcraft, off-grid camping
• Pros: No need to carry fuel
• Cons: Not suitable in wet or fire-ban conditions

Optional Bonus Types to Discuss

• Multifuel Stoves – Can run on several fuels (e.g., diesel, kerosene)
• Gel Fuel Stoves – Often used indoors or with chafing dishes
• Piezo-Electric Stoves – Feature push-button igniters for convenience
• Portable Propane Grill – For car camping or group cooking

Teaching Activity Suggestions

• Bring different stove types to show (or images if not available)
• Demonstrate the difference in size, fuel, and usage
• Discuss when you’d use each (light hiking vs. basecamp vs. winter trip)

2

Look up and discuss at least three Bible stories that involve cooking with fire.

Why Include Fire & Cooking in the Bible?

Fire and cooking in the Bible symbolize:

• God’s provision in times of need
• Sacrifice and worship
• Fellowship and hospitality
• Testing and purification
• Survival and reliance on God in the wilderness

Discussing these helps Pathfinders see that simple tools like a fuel stove connect to big spiritual lessons.

Biblical Stories Involving Fire & Cooking

1. Elijah and the Widow of Zarephath
1 Kings 17:8–16
Context: Elijah asks a widow to make him bread with her last bit of flour and oil during a famine.
Connection: Cooking over fire with nearly no fuel shows God’s power to provide. The oil and flour never run out.
Discussion: Have you ever felt like you had nothing left? How did God provide?

2. Jesus Cooks Fish for the Disciples (After Resurrection)
John 21:9–13
Context: Jesus appears after His resurrection and cooks fish and bread over a fire.
Connection: Shows His ongoing care, friendship, and the sacredness of sharing meals.
Discussion: Why do you think Jesus chose to cook for them instead of preaching?

3. Manna & Quail in the Wilderness
Exodus 16:11–31
Context: God provides food daily while Israel is in the desert.
Connection: People had to cook and prepare what God provided.
Discussion: Do you think fuel and fire were hard to manage in the wilderness?

4. Abraham Welcomes the Three Visitors
Genesis 18:1–8
Context: Abraham quickly prepares food for three strangers (angels).
Connection: Cooking over fire reflects hospitality and quick action to serve others.
Discussion: What does this say about being generous, even when busy?

5. The Fiery Furnace (Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego)
Daniel 3:19–27
Context: Not a cooking fire, but a furnace used to punish — which God overcomes.
Connection: Fire can represent trial, but God is more powerful.
Discussion: What’s the difference between destructive fire and cooking fire?

6. Jesus Feeds the 5,000
Matthew 14:13–21
Context: Though not directly about fire, it involves a miraculous meal.
Connection: Think about what fuel would be needed to feed that many.
Discussion: How do our small offerings become big when God is in it?

7. The Disciples on the Road to Emmaus
Luke 24:28–35
Context: Jesus breaks bread with them, and they suddenly recognize Him.
Connection: Food becomes a moment of revelation.
Discussion: How can simple acts like eating or cooking be holy moments?

8. The Passover Meal
Exodus 12:1–11
Context: The Israelites prepare lamb over fire, with unleavened bread.
Connection: Fire is part of the instructions from God for protection.
Discussion: What does obedience in cooking show us in this story?

9. Peter’s Denial by the Fire
John 18:18
Context: Peter denies Jesus while warming himself at a fire.
Connection: The setting of fire can be a place of failure or of restoration.
Discussion: When is the fire a place of temptation vs. restoration?

10. Isaiah’s Vision of the Burning Coal
Isaiah 6:6–7
Context: A coal from the altar touches Isaiah’s lips to purify him.
Connection: Fire is not just for cooking—it’s also purifying.
Discussion: How is fire a symbol of both heat and holiness?

Optional Group Reflection Prompts
Use one or more of these after discussing the verses:

• How is cooking or making meals an act of love or service in your family or club?
• What do these stories teach us about relying on God’s provision, even with little?
• When has a simple meal or campfire felt like a spiritual moment for you?
• What does it mean to be purified or refined by fire spiritually?

3

Research and share a short report or poster on the history and development of portable stoves, including their use in exploration, wartime, and camping.

Trainer’s Objective
Help Pathfinders understand that portable stoves are a relatively recent innovation in human history and that their design has been shaped by necessity—especially in the contexts of exploration, war, and outdoor recreation.

Encourage creative presentation (e.g., poster, slideshow, short video, written report).

What to Cover in Their Project
1. Origins of Portable Cooking Stoves

• Early cooking was done over open fires.
• As people became mobile (e.g., soldiers, explorers), the need for portable, efficient, and safe stoves increased.
• First designs emerged in the 1800s with simple metal boxes or folding grates over embers.

2. Wartime Development

• World Wars I and II accelerated stove innovation.
• Troops needed compact, durable, and reliable heat sources.
• Examples:

» Tommy Cooker (WWI) – crude gel-fuelled tin used by British troops.

» US Army M-1942 stove – gasoline stove issued during WWII; reliable but heavy.

» Esbit stoves – used by German troops, using solid hexamine tablets.

Discussion Prompt: How does war speed up invention?

3. Exploration & Expedition Use

• Arctic and alpine expeditions needed stoves that work in cold, windy, oxygen-thin environments.
• Classic stoves used:

» MSR WhisperLite – designed for mountaineers (liquid fuel, pressurised).

» Trangia – Swedish-made alcohol stove, wind-resistant and quiet.

» Solar cookers have also been explored but less practical in cold/extreme climates.

Discussion Prompt: What kind of stove would be best on an Antarctic trek? Why?

4. Camping & Recreation

• Modern campers have options based on activity:

» Butane/propane canister stoves – lightweight, instant ignition.

» Alcohol stoves – lightweight, good for ultralight hikers.

» Wood gas stoves – eco-friendly, burn twigs efficiently.

» Multifuel stoves – burn petrol, diesel, or white gas, ideal for international travel.

Optional Activity: Bring examples of different stove types (or show images/videos).

Project Format Options (For Pathfinders)
Let Pathfinders choose one format from the following:

• Poster (digital or physical)
• Slideshow presentation
• Handwritten mini-report with illustrations
• Infographic
• Short video or skit explaining history

Encourage inclusion of visuals, timeline, and key innovations.

Suggested Resources

• MSR Stoves History Overview
• Trangia Official Website
• Wikipedia: Portable Stove
• YouTube: Search for “History of Camping Stoves” or “Trangia vs Gas Stove Comparison”

4

Using guidance from a video (Internet) or adult leader, build a simple fuel stove, such as the “can stove”. Test it with supervision, using it to boil water or cook something simple (like soup or noodles).

Trainer’s Objective

• Ensure all Pathfinders safely and successfully construct, light, and use a basic fuel stove.
• Focus on hands-on skill-building, understanding fuel efficiency, and safe handling.
• This requirement blends STEM principles (heat transfer, combustion, design) with outdoor survival skills.

Part A: Build a Simple Fuel Stove
Recommended Model: Can Stove (Alcohol or Solid Fuel)

• Video Examples:

» DIY Can Stove – YouTube

» Trangia clone builds (Google “DIY alcohol stove”)

» Esbit-style solid tablet stove

Materials:

Item	Notes
Empty soda/energy drink can	Thinner aluminium cans are easiest
Scissors or utility knife	Close supervision required
Sandpaper or file	Smooth edges to avoid cuts
Ruler & marker	For measuring cut lines
Denatured alcohol / methylated spirits	Small amount (approx. 30 mL per boil)
Optional: Aluminum foil or base plate	Acts as a windscreen or ground barrier

Alternative Builds (If Preferred)

• Solid fuel stove: Uses Esbit/hexamine tablets, minimal construction.
• Wood gas stove: Use nested cans with air holes to create a secondary burn.
• Trangia-type alcohol burner: Use recycled tuna tin and fiberglass cloth.

Part B: Testing & Cooking

Demonstration Checklist:

• Safe ignition method (long lighter or match + supervision).
• Proper fuel amount (no overfilling — small volume only).
• Stove placed on non-flammable surface (e.g., dirt, stone).
• Basic wind protection (e.g., 3-sided shield).
• Water container or pan stable on top of stove.

Suggested Cooking Tasks (Choose One):

• Boil water (1–2 cups for hot chocolate or noodles)
• Make instant soup or porridge
• Heat canned food (e.g., beans) but make sure you don’t leave it sealed
• Warm bread on foil (low-risk)

Ensure food safety — don’t cook raw meat or high-fat items over DIY stoves.

Trainer Supervision Tips

• Supervise closely with fire safety gear on hand (water bucket or extinguisher).
• Have Pathfinders test fuel quantity in increments.
• If indoors, ensure full ventilation or perform task outside.
• Remind youth: “Start small, stay safe, and never use these inside tents!”

Optional Debrief Questions

• What worked well in your stove build?
• How would you improve the design if doing it again?
• What fuel type do you think is safest or most eco-friendly?
• Why might God value resourcefulness and simple tools (e.g., like Elijah and the widow’s flour/oil)?

5

Create a checklist of safety rules when using fuel stoves. Discuss what to do if a stove tips over or flares.

Trainer’s Objective
By the end of this activity, Pathfinders should:

• Demonstrate knowledge of safe setup, operation, and emergency response when using fuel stoves.
• Understand the potential hazards associated with each stove type.
• Be prepared to use a stove responsibly in a camping or hiking environment.

PART A: Fuel Stove Safety Checklist
Encourage the Pathfinders to create their own version, but here is a detailed reference list trainers can provide or adapt:

Before Use:
1. Check fuel type and match it with the stove design.
2. Inspect stove for damage — dents, cracks, or leaking seals.
3. Choose a flat, non-flammable surface — avoid dry grass or tents.
4. Use in a well-ventilated area — never inside tents or confined spaces.
5. Have safety gear nearby:

• Water bucket or sand
• Fire extinguisher (if available)

6. Secure loose clothing and hair — tie back anything that could catch fire.

During Use:
7. Add fuel carefully — never overfill. Wipe spills immediately.
8. Light safely:

• Use long matches or lighters.
• Stand back while lighting.

9. Stay with the stove at all times when lit.
10. Stabilize cooking pots — don’t overload the top with heavy or tall items.
11. Don’t cook fatty or oily food on an open flame (risk of flare).
12. Keep others at a safe distance — form a safety circle.

After Use:
13. Let the stove cool completely before handling or packing.
14. Never pour water on fuel flames (esp. alcohol or gas) — smother instead.
15. Store fuel away from heat and flame, in properly labelled containers.

PART B: What To Do If Something Goes Wrong
If the Stove Tips Over:

• Do not panic.
• Do not touch the stove immediately — it’s hot and unstable.
• Smother flames with pot lid, sand, or wet cloth.
• If the stove is still burning:

» Clear the area.

» Let the fuel burn off under watch, do not pour water.

• Treat any burns with cold running water and get first aid.

If the Stove Flares Up (large flame):

• Do not lean in — move back immediately.
• Remove the pot (if safe).
• Let the flare die down or carefully cover to extinguish oxygen.
• Do not blow on it — fuels like alcohol or gas can spread flame.
• If flare continues, treat as a fire emergency.

Trainer Tips

• Use real scenarios: Give case studies or role-plays.
• Bring mock equipment for risk-free practice.
• Let Pathfinders test safety with cold setups first (no fuel).
• Consider making this a poster activity or camp safety board.

6

In small groups, design and set up a mock campsite kitchen, including:

• Cooking area with your stove
• Water safety setup
• Fire extinguisher or water bucket

Trainer’s Objective
Pathfinders should demonstrate practical planning for safe and functional outdoor cooking by simulating a real campsite kitchen setup. This encourages teamwork, safety awareness, and outdoor skills relevant to campcraft and hiking.

ACTIVITY OVERVIEW
This requirement is best completed at a campsite, church grounds, or open park where small groups can lay out equipment and simulate a real cooking area. It can be done with real stoves or improvised setups (if fire use is restricted).

Step-by-Step Guidance
1. Divide Into Small Groups (3–5 Pathfinders). Each group should be assigned a specific area and given time to:

• Discuss layout
• Delegate roles (e.g., stove manager, safety officer, gear planner)
• Draw a rough diagram (optional)

2. Design a Mock Kitchen Including:

a. Cooking Area with Your Stove

• Must be on a flat, stable surface
• Not under overhanging branches or inside a tent
• Include:

» Stove or simulated stove (e.g., brick circle)

» Pot or kettle for boiling

» Wind break (if applicable)

» Cooking gear (spatula, tongs, gloves)

b. Water Safety Setup

• Show where clean water will be sourced (e.g., labelled container)
• Dishwashing station (bucket or basins)
• Handwashing point – optional but ideal (soap and water jug)
• Discuss grey water disposal – “Leave No Trace” principles

c. Fire Safety Measures

• Water bucket (filled) or fire extinguisher
• Fire blanket (if available)
• First aid kit nearby
• Emergency escape route planned and discussed

Trainer Checkpoints - Use the following checklist to assess each group’s setup:

Area	Safety & Practicality Check
Stove Placement	Flat, open, wind-safe?
Fuel Handling	Proper fuel types? Safe storage?
Clean Water	Labelled, separate from grey water?
Cooking Gear	Functional, hygienic?
Fire Safety	Water bucket/extinguisher present?
Organisation	Tidy, accessible, group cooperation?
Encourage positive feedback and peer review between groups.

Variation Options (if indoors or limited space)

• Use toy stoves or cardboard props
• Draw camp kitchen diagrams
• Use a PowerPoint or whiteboard plan and label components
• Share photos of real camp kitchens and ask: “What’s missing or unsafe?”

Discussion Prompt (Post Activity)
“If we had to cook a real meal here, what would we change or improve about our kitchen setup?” This helps link design with real-life functionality and safety.

7

As a group, reflect on the role of hospitality and sharing meals in the Bible.

Optional: Prepare a meal together outdoors and share a short devotion.

Trainer’s Objective
This final requirement connects practical outdoor cooking to Christian values of hospitality, community, and service. It invites Pathfinders to reflect on how sharing a meal—something they’ve just learned how to prepare—can be a way of showing love and reflecting Christ’s example.

Discussion Guide: Hospitality in the Bible
Use these prompts to guide a group discussion:
1. Why does sharing food matter in the Bible?

• In the ancient world, hospitality was a sacred duty.
• Meals were used to build relationships, establish peace, and welcome strangers.

2. Who in the Bible shared meals with others?

Here are key examples to explore:

Story	Lesson
Abraham and the three visitors (Genesis 18:1–8)	Abraham welcomes strangers with a generous meal – later revealed to be messengers from God.
Jesus feeds the 5,000 (John 6:1–14)	Jesus shares a meal with the crowd and provides in abundance, showing God’s provision.
The Last Supper (Luke 22:14–20)	Jesus shares one final meal with His disciples, giving it deep symbolic meaning.
Martha and Mary (Luke 10:38–42)	Martha serves while Mary listens – showing both action and presence have value.
Zacchaeus’ dinner with Jesus (Luke 19:1–10)	Sharing a meal transforms Zacchaeus’ heart and life.
Early Church fellowship (Acts 2:42–47)	Believers shared meals, prayers, and everything they had in common.

Suggested Devotion Themes
You may wish to invite a Pathfinder or leader to share a short devotion around:

• “Breaking Bread Together” – Acts 2:42
• “Feeding the Hungry” – Matthew 25:35
• “Jesus the Bread of Life” – John 6:35
• “God Provides” – Exodus 16:1–36 (Manna)

Encourage them to relate these verses back to their recent camping experience. For example: “Just like we needed to work together to cook our meal, early Christians gathered and shared everything. Our stoves may be small, but what we cook with them can be a big blessing to someone else.”

Optional Activity: Outdoor Shared Meal
If time and weather permit, this activity brings the honor full circle.

Meal Options:

• Boil-and-serve soup
• Flatbread or damper
• Simple noodle stir-fry
• Pancakes
• Hot chocolate or tea

Let each group cook a component of the meal (main, drink, dessert) using their fuel stove or simulated setup.
Suggested Setup:

• Circle of logs or seats
• Shared food table
• Reflection or prayer area

Reflective Questions (Post-Meal)

• What made this meal special?
• How did it feel to cook for someone else?
• When have you seen food bring people together?
• How can we use our cooking skills to serve others (e.g., soup kitchen, camp catering, mission trips)?

References

• Australian Union Fuel Stove Honor