causes of wildfires and precautions
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Causes of Wildfires
1. Human beings are the number one cause of wildfires in the United States. Many of these wildfires are caused by cigarette butts being left on the land, campfires that have been left unmonitored, as well as intentional acts of arson. 90% of the wildfires in the U.S. are caused by people. Below are few of the man-made causes of wildfires.
Lightening: Lightening can cause wildfires, especially the type of lightning called “hot lightning”, which can last for a relatively long time. When it strikes, it can produce a spark which can set off a forest or a field.
Equipment Failure or Engine Sparks: A running engine can spew hot sparks when things go wrong. Car crashes have been known to start fires quickly and that is why it is common to see firefighters rush to the scene in anticipation of a fire. Small engine sparks can give way to high flames if that vehicle is operating in a field or a forest.
Cigarettes: Cigarettes are another common cause of wildfires. It is common for people to throw the cigarette bud on the ground knowing that it is still burning. Smokers must understand that a small negligence on their part can cause huge impact on the environment and surrounding areas.
Fireworks: Fireworks are fun to shoot off but special care needs to be taken when they are in the hands of amateurs. Fireworks must be avoided even when there is small chance that they could start a wildfire. If not handled properly that may end up as flames in unwanted territory.
PRECAUTIONS
1. Make sure you are following all of the local regulations and laws regarding burning fires during various times of day, year, and what materials and substances are permitted to be burned. If you do not see a sign with the rules find a park ranger or someone close by and keep a list of the rules and regulations on hand.
2. Keep up to date with the weather forecast so you are sure not to burn any substances while there are high winds or other treacherous conditions. Certain areas are more prone to wildfires than others so make sure that you check with the area to see if they are more at risk than other areas. The Wildland Fire Assessment System will give you an updated map on which areas are more at risk. Weather is one of the biggest reasons why wildfires occur. Always keep in mind the weather before you ever even plan your trip.
3. Only light fires in areas that are easily controlled locations. Make sure when you are creating fire pits or other fires that you are doing so in areas that are controlled and fires cannot spread into other areas. A fire will need to be contained so that it will be easy to put out especially if a dangerous situation would arise.
4. Do not burn any materials that are combustible or unusual in nature. Do not throw garbage onto campfires or any other materials that should not be burned. You should only be using materials that are organic such as leaves, woods, or yard waste. If you put unusual materials into a fire it is only going to make the fire spread at a rapid rate which causes more problems for the area you are in.
5. If you are a cigarette smoker it is important not to smoke cigarettes where you are not supposed to. If you do smoke you need to make sure that you put your cigarette out completely before disposing of it.
1. Human beings are the number one cause of wildfires in the United States. Many of these wildfires are caused by cigarette butts being left on the land, campfires that have been left unmonitored, as well as intentional acts of arson. 90% of the wildfires in the U.S. are caused by people. Below are few of the man-made causes of wildfires.
Lightening: Lightening can cause wildfires, especially the type of lightning called “hot lightning”, which can last for a relatively long time. When it strikes, it can produce a spark which can set off a forest or a field.
Equipment Failure or Engine Sparks: A running engine can spew hot sparks when things go wrong. Car crashes have been known to start fires quickly and that is why it is common to see firefighters rush to the scene in anticipation of a fire. Small engine sparks can give way to high flames if that vehicle is operating in a field or a forest.
Cigarettes: Cigarettes are another common cause of wildfires. It is common for people to throw the cigarette bud on the ground knowing that it is still burning. Smokers must understand that a small negligence on their part can cause huge impact on the environment and surrounding areas.
Fireworks: Fireworks are fun to shoot off but special care needs to be taken when they are in the hands of amateurs. Fireworks must be avoided even when there is small chance that they could start a wildfire. If not handled properly that may end up as flames in unwanted territory.
PRECAUTIONS
1. Make sure you are following all of the local regulations and laws regarding burning fires during various times of day, year, and what materials and substances are permitted to be burned. If you do not see a sign with the rules find a park ranger or someone close by and keep a list of the rules and regulations on hand.
2. Keep up to date with the weather forecast so you are sure not to burn any substances while there are high winds or other treacherous conditions. Certain areas are more prone to wildfires than others so make sure that you check with the area to see if they are more at risk than other areas. The Wildland Fire Assessment System will give you an updated map on which areas are more at risk. Weather is one of the biggest reasons why wildfires occur. Always keep in mind the weather before you ever even plan your trip.
3. Only light fires in areas that are easily controlled locations. Make sure when you are creating fire pits or other fires that you are doing so in areas that are controlled and fires cannot spread into other areas. A fire will need to be contained so that it will be easy to put out especially if a dangerous situation would arise.
4. Do not burn any materials that are combustible or unusual in nature. Do not throw garbage onto campfires or any other materials that should not be burned. You should only be using materials that are organic such as leaves, woods, or yard waste. If you put unusual materials into a fire it is only going to make the fire spread at a rapid rate which causes more problems for the area you are in.
5. If you are a cigarette smoker it is important not to smoke cigarettes where you are not supposed to. If you do smoke you need to make sure that you put your cigarette out completely before disposing of it.
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