A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire in an area of land that is not designated for burning. Wildfires can occur naturally, through the ignition of dry vegetation by lightning strikes, or they can be started by humans through carelessness or arson. Wildfires can spread quickly and burn large areas of land, making them extremely dangerous.
Wildfires are a major problem in many parts of the world, especially during the summer months when conditions are dry and hot. In 2018, wildfires burned more than 10 million hectares (25 million acres) of land in the United States alone.1 Many other countries also experience significant wildfire activity each year.
The effects of wildfires can be devastating. They can destroy homes and businesses, damage infrastructure, pollute air and water resources, and cause loss of life. Wildfires also have economic impacts, as they can disrupt agricultural production and tourism activities.2 In addition, wildfires emit large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere which contribute to climate change.3
There are several steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce the risk of wildfires:4
-Avoiding activities that could start a fire (e.g., smoking cigarettes outdoors)
-Clearing leaves and other debris from gutters, rooflines, and around buildings
-Creating defensible space around structures by trimming trees and shrubs
-Using fire-resistant materials when building or renovating homes
-following local regulations regarding open burning
Communities should also have a plan in place for evacuating residents in case a wildfire threatens their area.5 This plan should include routes to safe areas outside of the path of the fire as well as shelter options for those who cannot evacuate immediately.6 evacuation procedures should be regularly practiced so that everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency situation..7