The point is, in a reply to Phat's post, knowing how to do even the most basic and primitive of things even with better and more efficient technology, doesn't mean people shouldn't know them. The GPS and map/compass point was merely just to support my argument.

I'm pretty sure you missed the point I was making entirely and took it somewhere else. My thinking was of the worst case secnario, such as falling in a river crossing and having to bail on your pack and losing everything because it was either in the pack and wet and useless. You can be prepared as you like with matches, lighters and a magnesium stick, but it doesn't guarantee they're always going to be with you for whatever reason. Knowing how to get along without them is called being prepared as well, something you failed to take into consideration.

As for fire bans, fire bans are irrelevant. If you're actually in situation where you need a fire to get back out, they're not going to fine you, especially if you're smart about it.