Are flying ashes from a camp fire really a problem?

[sunberry]

If you are far enough away, you may not get sparks, but should still get some heat. With a tarp set up-behind you, it would likely keep you warm.
Personally, I feel safer when there's no open fire near me while I'm hammocking. Gladly, almost all of my friends prefer coal pit to open fire, so we usually don't have any arguments when we're on track together. I believe that others shouldn't decide your gear's fate, even if they were lucky enough to not experience something like this in the past. You're not paranoid or weird and your concerns are understandable.

CM,

Dont worry about what other people think. Do what makes you safe/happy.

Also this^
Safety first!

[cougarmeat]

sunberry - you bring coal with you? BBQ briquettes?

[Privateer6]

I am cautious, and hang away. Good friend of mine had a brand new REI tent that got some embers from another group camping next to him. They didn't care, and continued on after he asked them to be careful because they are causing embers to go everywhere. Thankfully the ground was somewhat wet from the week's rains., and they didn't cause a forest fire.