What are some common uses of …

Heat

One of the most well known uses for fire is for heat. Dating back to the early years of mankind, humans used fire to keep warm. Even today people regularly use open fires to stay warm outdoors during camping trips or use fireplaces in homes to keep the house warm during the winter. Even gas burning central heating units ignite a flame and use its heat to warm air that is then blown into the home through ducts by a fan.

Light

Perhaps one of the most important uses of fire throughout history has been its ability to provide light. Fire is a good light source although it pales in comparison to other sources, such as light bulbs and flashlights for some purposes. It does, however, provide a soft glow that can help light an area and make it possible to move around at night outdoors. In the days prior to electric lights in homes, fire was a main source of light used in fireplaces and oil lanterns.

Cooking

Fire can be used to prepare foods in many ways. Open fires have long been used to roast meats and vegetables while grills use flames to prepare favorite foods like steaks, hamburgers, hot dogs, fish and much more. Many people prefer grilling to oven roasting or frying because of the distinct smoky flavor it produces. Fire is also the catalyst for smoking meats. This method of flavoring and preserving meats has been around for generations. Gas ranges also use open flames for cooking