Human activity is responsible for the majority of wildfires. So, how can we take action to prevent these fires from igniting and spreading? By understanding the causes and adopting responsible practices, we can all play a crucial role in reducing wildfire risks.
Wildfires
Wildfires pose a serious threat to ecosystems, property, and human lives. As climate change accelerates, rising global temperatures and increasing droughts are making many areas more prone to wildfires, making the threat of wildfires greater.
At the same time, while natural causes like lightning strikes can spark wildfires, human activity is responsible for almost 90% of them (Western Fire Chiefs Association). This raises a critical question: how to prevent wildfires?
How to Prevent Wildfires?
Individuals
Pay Attention to Weather Conditions.
Never start a fire—whether for barbecues, campfires, or burning trash—during periods of extreme dryness or high winds. Strong winds can carry embers or burning debris over long distances, igniting dry vegetation and quickly escalating into a large wildfire. Always check the weather forecast and avoid open flames in risky conditions.
Be prepared to Extinguish Fires
Just as you bring the right tools for a successful barbecue, make sure you have the equipment needed to put out a fire quickly. This can be as simple as keeping a bucket of water nearby, a shovel for smothering flames, or a small fire extinguisher. Being prepared can make all the difference in preventing a small fire from spreading.
Dispose of Cigarettes Responsibly
Improperly discarded cigarette butts are a leading cause of wildfires. Always ensure your cigarette is fully extinguished before disposal. Use designated ashtrays or appropriate containers—never toss cigarette butts on the ground, especially in dry or wildfire-prone areas. A small act of carelessness can have devastating consequences.
Speak Up and Stay Alert!
If you see anyone engaging in unsafe practices or acting suspiciously in wildfire-prone areas, report it to local authorities. Early intervention can prevent a small fire from turning into a disaster.
Never leave fires unattended!
Whether you are enjoying a campfire, barbecue, or bonfire, always keep an eye on the flames. Fires left unattended, even for a short time, can spread quickly.
Organisations & Land Managers
Prescribed Burns
Prescribed burns, also known as controlled burns, are a method of reducing wildfire risk by deliberately setting fires in targeted to minimise dry vegetation which is easily flammable. Remember to coordinate with local fire agencies and environmental groups to ensure prescribed burns are safely conducted and well-monitored.
Wildfire Risk Assessments
Conduct wildfire risk assessments regularly. LUCIÂ is a wildfire risk map that can be used to analyse areas susceptible to wildfires, allowing land managers to focus on the most risky areas thus efficiently preventing wildfires.
LUCI Wildfire Risk Mapping for Italy, 2022, 2023, 2024.
Forest Management and Logging
Effective forest management plays a key role in preventing wildfires. Proper thinning and selective logging reduce the buildup of dense, dry vegetation, which can fuel fires. Identifying high-risk areas through tools like LUCI makes it easier to implement targeted strategies, ensuring forests remain healthy and less prone to wildfire damage.
Vehicle Safety
Don't park vehicles on dry grass, as hot exhaust systems can ignite them. Be cautious with equipment like chainsaws and lawnmowers that can produce sparks.
Ensure Clear Access for Firefighters
In the event of a wildfire, well-maintained streets and access routes are crucial. Clear and accessible roads enable fire crews to reach the affected area quickly, allowing them to contain the fire before it spreads further. Regularly maintaining roads and removing obstacles can make a significant difference in emergency response times.
LUCI - Localised Understanding for Combatting Ignition
LUCI is a wildfire risk map supporting wildfire prevention. It leverages ERA5 climate data, along with topographic, anthropogenic, vegetation, and other environmental data, to enhance its predictive capabilities.
Want to know where the highest risk for a wildfire is on your land? Contact us now!
References:
Western Fire Chiefs Association. (n.d.). What causes wildfires? Western Fire Chiefs Association. Retrieved November 25, 2024, from https://wfca.com/wildfire-articles/what-causes-wildfires/#:~:text=Humans%20cause%20nearly%2090%25%20of,lightning%20strikes%20and%20volcanic%20eruptions
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