What You Should Know About Wildfires

Wildfires are a type of natural disaster that can cause extensive damage to property and loss of life. They typically occur during the summer months when dry conditions lead to the growth of large, uncontrolled fires. Read on to learn more about wildfires, how to prevent damage to your property by wildfire, and what to do if your home is impacted by one.

How Do Wildfires Start?

There are many ways that wildfires can start, but the most common is by human activity. People started an estimated 89 percent of all wildfires from 2017-2021, according to the Congressional Research Service.

Lightning strikes can also ignite fires, and these account for about 10 percent of all wildfires. The remaining six percent are started by other natural causes, such as lava flows or hot rocks.

Once a fire is started, it can be further fueled by high winds, low humidity, and dry conditions. All these elements combine to create what firefighters call “extreme fire behavior.” This is when a fire grows rapidly and becomes very difficult to control.

The Consequences of Wildfires

Wildfires can have devastating consequences. They can destroy homes and businesses, damage natural habitats, and pollute the air. They can also cause injuries and even deaths. In 2018, for example, the Camp Fire in California killed 85 people and destroyed more than 18,000 structures.

That same year, the Carr Fire in California burned more than 229,000 acres of land and killed eight people. It was one of the most destructive wildfires in the state’s history.

Wildfires Are a Natural Part of Many Ecosystems

Wildfires are a natural part of many ecosystems, but they can become dangerous when they get out of control. That’s why it’s important to be careful when you’re in areas where there is a risk of fire. If you see smoke or flames, don’t hesitate to call 911.

How Can People Reduce Causing Fires?

Wildfires can start in several ways, but the most common cause is careless human activity. Cigarette smoking, campfires left unattended, and burning trash are all responsible for starting many wildfires each year. Arson is also a leading cause of wildfires, accounting for about 10% of all fires nationwide. Lightning strikes are another significant cause of wildfires, particularly in areas that are prone to dry conditions and high winds.

To prevent wildfires, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards and take steps to avoid them. Never leave a campfire unattended, make sure cigarettes are extinguished properly, and refrain from burning trash or debris. Be especially careful in areas that are dry or vulnerable to high winds. If you see any signs of arson or suspicious activity, report it immediately to authorities. By taking these simple precautions, we can all help reduce the risk of wildfires.

How Do You Protect Your Home From a Wildfire?

The best way to protect your home from a wildfire is to create a defensible space around it. This means clearing away any flammable materials such as dead leaves and branches and keeping your lawn watered. You should also have an evacuation plan in place in case you need to leave your home quickly.

Wildfires can be terrifying events, but by being prepared you can help keep yourself and your property safe.

Have You Been Impacted by a Wildfire? Contact Pacific Flood Restoration Today!

Pacific Flood Restoration has a team of experienced and certified technicians who are experts in repairing fire-related damage, including:

• Structural repairs
• Water damage repairs
• Fire damage restoration

Recovering from the devastation of a wildfire is overwhelming, which is why we offer emergency restoration services to get your home repaired as soon as possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you recover from wildfire damage.