Wildfire

WHAT IS A WILDFIRE?
– It is a sweeping and destructive conflagration especially in a wilderness or rural area.

HOW DO THEY START?

Forest fires start whether through natural causes or causes done by man. Natural fires are commenced by lightning, and random combustion of dry materials. Human-caused wildfires are started through careless disposal of minimally lit cigarette butts, recreation, equipment that may involve flame, and miscellaneous. Wildfires caused by mankind have higher rates of occurrences compared to natural ones. However, natural wildfires have greater damage and burn out a larger span of perimeter in certain areas. This is because human-caused wildfires are noticed right away and are easily contained. Natural fires, on the other hand, are detected during the latter moments of the catastrophe, already devouring massive amounts of areas.

THE EFFECTS OF WILDFIRES:

* Wildfires have various effects, but I’ve only chosen five (5) of them that have majorly affected the environment.

1. Wildfires can destroy an entire ecosystem.
It is capable of deteriorating a massive area including its inhabitants (whether flora, fauna, or mankind), and the various infrastructures located within that area.

2. Soils lose their nutrients.
When a wildfire occurs, all the nutrients the soils possess are disintegrated and are gone for good.

3. Animals lose their lives.
Wildfires tend to burn and kill innocent animals inhabiting the area where it occurred.

4. Too much water in the soil causes erosion.
Firefighters who attempt to contain the massive fires tend to utilized enormous amounts of water which may destroy the land and cause soil erosion.

5. Ash and smoke can cause serious health issues.
The rubble brought by the aftermath of wildfires are a great concern and threat to those who have medical problems, especially in the lungs.

WAYS TO PREVENT A WILDFIRE:

* Contact 911 or the designated emergency number for the area you are located in.
* Never leave a fire unattended.
* Beware of using contraptions that may cause fires (e.g. fueling lanterns, stoves, and heaters).
* Be careful in disposing of cigarettes, matches, and smoking materials.
* Follow the local ordinances when burning yard waste.

EVACUATION TIPS:

* If advised to evacuate by the local authority, do so immediately.
* Be aware of the evacuation route ahead of time in case wildfires occur spontaneously.
* Prepare emergency supplies and protective clothing to reduce harm from random sparks, flames, and ashes.