Most Common Causes of Accidental Forest Fires
Wildfires are a danger that too many across the country have to deal with throughout the year. Unfortunately, human error is the cause of many of these fires. Consider some of the most common causes of accidental forest fires so you can remain vigilant against these careless and dangerous mistakes.
Campfires
Too often, we see a forest fire blazing on the news and learn that the cause was an unattended campfire in a nearby park. A campfire in a forest isn’t just a fun camping activity that allows you to gather around and roast hot dogs and sing songs—it’s a serious responsibility for all campers.
A campfire in a forest should never be left unattended, as even small embers can reach dry vegetation or brush and quickly ignite a fire. Campfires can be fun, but don’t underestimate the responsibility they require.
Pro Tip: During a campfire, always have a means to extinguish it nearby—this could be water, a fire extinguisher, or a shovel for scooping dirt onto the fire.
Burning Debris
Burning debris is a quick way to eliminate large amounts of waste, such as garbage or natural debris like leaves, grass clippings, or vegetation. But, like a campfire, it’s a common cause of accidental forest fires as these burning waste piles can quickly get out of hand.
If you’re burning debris, take necessary safety precautions and be conscious of the weather, especially if it’s windy. Be patient and take your time; don’t try to burn everything at once and risk losing control of the flame.
Pro Tip: Check local ordinances before burning debris in your area, as some locales have laws and regulations regarding burning waste.
Cigarette Litter
You’d be surprised how often a significant wildfire’s origins can be traced back to a careless camper or driver discarding a lit cigarette in a flammable environment. Even a lit cigarette tossed from a moving vehicle can land on dry vegetation and become a spark for a major forest fire.
It’s never a good idea to smoke in a forest, but if you have to do it, ensure the cigarette is entirely out and dispose of it in a receptacle, not on the ground.
Vehicles
Cars and vehicles can also accidentally start a forest fire by producing heat or sparks in flammable environments. A fire could come from an accident or collision that leaks flammable liquids and produces sparks.
Chains dragging from a trailer can cause sparks and easily become a catalyst for a fire. A hot exhaust pipe or catalytic converter can also heat and burn dry vegetation if close enough, so always be mindful of where you park your car in a forest.
There are many causes of accidental wildfires, so it’s essential to be prepared with emergency resources like food, medical supplies, and even fire-resistant clothing. Next time you’re camping in a state park, stay cautious, and don’t forget the responsibility that all campers have to keep our forests and citizens safe!