by Margaux Sky

Created on: December 21, 2008   Last Updated: August 15, 2011

Mother Nature accounts for some wildfires, but the sad reality is that it is people who cause the majority of wildfires. Wildfires conjure up ravage imagery of maniacal flames engulfing massive mountain regions in the rich mountains of California or any state thick with forests, but wildfires are contrary creatures and can erupt on the flatlands just as easily, sweeping across the plains of a state like Iowa effortlessly, erasing nature's wondrous colors with scorched, charred, gray smoldering landscape. Wildfires do not distinguish between vast acreage and a comfortable neighborhood such as the one wherein, perhaps, you reside. If you've any sort of grassy area or hilly region near your home, then you can fall victim to wildfires and should take precautions by investing in learning easy safety tips that will keep you out of harm's way in the event a wildfire erupts.

Arson does account for many wildfires, sadly, but there are wildfires that rage out of control by accident. Simple safety precautions can secure your home, neighborhood, open acreage, and natural landscape from an outbreak. Keep in mind that fires typically start by lack of knowledge. False belief that wildfires only happen in mountainous or lush regions (and only to someone else) must be discarded. They can happen to you, so take every precaution to secure your safety.

There are safety tips with which to familiarize your family. Remember, it takes a single spark from an ember to ignite an uncontrollable wildfire. Safety tips could save you in the event of a wildfire, and when camping, these safety tips will ensure that you are responsible and considerate.

WILDFIRE SAFETY TIPS

• Certain events require that you contact your local fire, health, or forestry departments for information on laws concerning fire. Some communities forbid burning of certain elements and have specific hours in which burning is allowed.

• Teach children fire safety tips. Fire is a tool but can rapidly become a weapon that kills. Keep all fire provoking utensils away from children.

• Always plan an escape route on foot or car.

• Whether at home or camping, children and physically impaired persons need to know the plan for escape. It is crucial they are prepped to know the path to safety.

• Post fire emergency numbers next to your phone.

• Keep your driveway cleared and wide for fire vehicles and keep your house visible from the street.

• Mow a ring-of-safety 40-50 feet back from your home.

• Smoker? Don't toss matches from the car.

• Insert a spark-arresting screen in your fireplace or woodstove chimney.

• Keep roof free of rubbish.

• Trim trees 30 feet and evergreens 6 feet above the ground.

• Build your campfire in a metal ring and if that isn't possible, remove any previous burned materials and dig down to unused mineral soil. Keep campfire 20 feet clear from any trees.

• Keep the fire small and manageable, never leave the fire unattended, and ALWAYS keep water and a shovel nearby.

• Water down your fire pit until it is cold to the touch.

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