A dandy do-or-die fire starter is a shortened hwy flare. You cut one to about three inches long behind the head with a hacksaw, trim a little wooden plug to fit the cut end, and hold it in place with some small nails. Shortened that way, will burn for five minutes or so, and hot enough to dry any damp wood, as long as it is not too large. Guarenteed to start, even with gloves on, or numb hands.

In the past I have on occasion found shipments of flares that for some reason did not like to start easliy, so I would suggest trying a few before you cut your small ones, just to make sure they are easy lighters. That of course is assuming that you have access to a large supply. If you have to just buy a few, you are on your own...