With the devastating destruction caused by wildfire, it’s hard to imagine that a single ember is all it can take to start an inferno. Yet, this is often the case—and in most cases, humans are to blame. If you’re wondering what causes wildfires, read on. Here is your complete guide to understanding the most common causes and key risk factors of wildland fires.
Wildland fires are classified as either naturally occurring or human-caused. According to the National Park Service, however, human-caused wildfires are significantly more common, with human involvement triggering 85% to 90% of wildfires.
For any fire to occur, there are three elements needed—heat, fuel, and oxygen:
Heat – There are many potential heat sources that can create embers and ignite wildfires. Many of these are human-caused, which we will cover in more detail below.
Fuel – California’s arid climate and abundant, bone dry vegetation provides copious amounts of fuel for wildfires.
Oxygen – California’s infamous Santa Ana winds, dubbed “Diablo winds” by some locals, produce gusts averaging 45-50 mph, with record gusts clocked at over 160 mph. These winds fan the flames and spread embers, leading to truly devastating wildfires.
California’s dry climate, abundant winds, and dried vegetation provide prime conditions for a wildfire—and it only takes a single ember to ignite and destroy hundreds of thousands of acres. Here’s a closer look at the top three heat sources that are the most common cause of wildfires:
Burning Debris
Escaped embers from burning debris are one of the most common causes of wildfires. On a particularly windy day, escaped embers can carry for miles without extinguishing.
In many parts of the United States, burning dead vegetation is illegal. However, in some states, such as California, it is permitted during certain times of the year. When burning vegetation and other debris, stay mindful and pay close attention to weather conditions. For more information on burning debris safely, visit the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection.
Unattended Campfires
We typically associate campfires with beautiful memories, like s’mores and stories with loved ones. However, despite a campfire’s summertime appeal, they are one of the leading causes of wildfires. The Ham Lake Fire, which destroyed 75,000 acres and hundreds of properties, is just one example of the devastation that a single campfire can cause.
If you plan on camping this year, always remember to practice proper fire safety. Smokey Bear is an excellent resource for safety rules on building and extinguishing campfires.
Electrical Power
Fallen power lines rank among the top causes of wildfires, ranking as the third most common cause of wildfires in California. In some cases, it only takes a branch falling from a tree and striking a power line to create sparks. Nearly 10% of wildfires result from fallen power lines, which equates to roughly 400 fires per year in California.
Over the past six years, over 1,500 Californian wildfires were caused by fallen power lines, including the deadliest fire in history—the Camp Fire, which destroyed over 18,000 structures and took 85 lives. The prominent California utility company, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. (PG&E), has faced lawsuits for its responsibility in igniting a series of wildfires in 2017 and 2018 (including the Camp Fire). In 2020, PG&E paid an $11 billion settlement to resolve all insurance subrogation claims from these fires.
In the past, California has responded with measures such as power shut-offs. While this safety measure may cause inconveniences for some, it can help to save many lives and prevent property destruction during dry and windy seasons.
At Frontline Wildfire Defense, we understand that it is vital for wildfire defence systems to be able to operate even during power outages. In response, our exterior sprinkler system features a built-in backup battery. Our system can also be activated remotely, working via satellite communications where Wi-Fi and cell service is unavailable.
Climate Change & Preventing Wildfires
When discussing what causes wildfires, it’s impossible to ignore climate change. Rising temperatures and drought are two key risk factors.
According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, average temperatures in the United States have increased by two degrees since 1970, and California has warmed by three degrees.
This rise in temperature may seem small, but its impact is visible across the world. Forests are remaining dry (and drier) for longer periods—and dry plants, trees, and shrubs serve as abundant fuel for fires.
With a prolonged dry period, some experts have even suggested that climate change is leading to the gradual disappearance of a fire season. The 2019 California fire season, for instance, increased by 75 days according to CAL Fire.
Today, the conditions for wildfires are present nearly year-round, so practicing proper fire safety and taking steps to protect your property is crucial. By doing your part in following safety guidelines, you can help prevent future wildfires.
Protect Your Home Today
While wildland fires are often unpredictable, you can take proactive steps to protect your property. Creating defensible space, incorporating fire-resistant building materials, and installing sprinkler systems are just a few effective ways to safeguard your home.
Wildlife sprinkler systems, like the Frontline Wildfire Defense System, cover your home and property with a mixture of water and biodegradable firefighting foam. Our sprinkler systems provide proactive hydration to protect your property from flying embers, the cause of 90% of homes destroyed by wildfire.
Preventing Wildfires
Wildfire prevention methods are essential to ensure wildlands, and those who live in and around them are safe. Here are ways that you can be proactive:
1. Report Unattended Fires
If you are ever out and about and notice a fire that is burning out of control or is unattended, immediately call 911 or your local fire department . When the conditions are right, even a small campfire can turn into a massive fire. .”See something? Say something,” is one of the key wildfire prevention methods
2. Extinguish Fire Pits And Campfires When Done
Many people wonder how to prevent wildfires, but the easiest way is to be careful when having a campfire or using a fire pit. A fire should never be left unattended for any period. Also, when you are done with the fire, then make sure you completely extinguish it. Use water or ashes to put out the flames. Keep tents and sleeping gear away from any fire pit or campfire to ensure you don’t add fuel to the fire. Loose kindling and branches around the campsite can feed the flames. To prevent wildfires, you should tidy up the area to make sure there is nothing that could catch fire from an errant spark.
3. Don’t Throw Lit Cigarettes Out Of Your Moving Car
Never throw lit cigarettes, smoking materials, or matches out of your car, or on the ground. Cigarettes and matches both have enough heat to create a spark. Make sure any cigarettes are completely extinguished before you throw them in the trash. Many wildfires can start by carelessly flicking a cigarette butt on the ground, especially during dangerously dry conditions.
4. Use Caution When Using Flammable Liquids
When using propane to refill stoves, lanterns, or heaters, make sure you use extreme caution. Wait to fill these devices once they have completely cooled. Any flammable liquids can quickly ignite a lantern. Additionally, these should be filled outside rather than inside.
5. Pay Attention To Local Ordinances For Trash Burning
If you burn your trash, then you need to make sure that you follow your local ordinances. Most areas will have restrictions when it’s windy, or there are dangerous conditions that can spark a wildfire. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher with you when you burn anything so that you can put out the flames if necessary. If you have any flammable materials in your yard, remove them before you burn any trash or rubbish.
6. Only Use Fireworks In Clear Areas With No Woods Nearby
Wildfire prevention techniques can be difficult when most people don’t realize the harm involved. For instance, during the 4th of July holiday season, people love sparklers and other fireworks. However, these things should never be used unless there is a wide-open space with no flammable materials nearby. Also, check with your local ordinances as many restrict fireworks altogether.
7. Pay Attention To The Risk Of Forest Fires In Your Area
Always check the local forecast to learn about fire safety alerts. The U.S. Forest Service mascot is Smokey The Bear, and there is a risk posted wherever his statue is located near wooded areas. Regions in California and other places around the county post the risk for forest fires daily. The public must be made aware so that they can prevent doing any activities that could end up causing a wildfire.
How To Prepare For A Wildfire
If the area you live in is experiencing out of control fires, then there are a few things you can do to prepare for wildfire. Here are some tips to ensure you and your family’s safety.
- Follow evacuation orders
- Keep leaves and other debris raked in your yard.
- Make sure flammable chemicals are in proper containers and stored safely.
- Never outrun a blaze – seek cover in lakes, rivers, or streams until it passes. Wet blankets can work if no water is nearby.
- Use masks to protect your lungs.
- Always listen to your local weather and news reports to make sure you know about the air quality, evacuation orders, and the status of the fire.
