Did you know that approximately 85% of wildfires are caused by humans? Wildfires occur across the United States every year, causing catastrophic damage, destroying homes and natural resources, and taking lives.
Some of the most common human-caused wildfire sources include unattended campfires, debris burning, equipment use and malfunctions, discarded cigarettes, and arson. While it may be alarming that so many wildfires are human-caused, it also means we can significantly reduce their frequency by practicing proper fire safety.
According to Science.org, wildfire smoke is responsible for an estimated 24,100 deaths each year. Wildfires also cause billions of dollars in property and economic damage. Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take to help prevent wildfires and protect themselves, their communities, and the environment.
Preventing wildfires starts with understanding common fire hazards and taking precautions before using fire, vehicles, or equipment outdoors.
Here are 10 wildfire prevention tips based on guidance from the U.S. Department of the Interior.
1. Check the Weather and Drought Conditions
One of the easiest ways to help prevent wildfires is to pay attention to the weather forecast and local fire conditions. Cancel or postpone activities involving fire when conditions are hot, dry, or windy.
You should also pay attention to local fire restrictions and regulations. Consider weather conditions and local guidelines before building a campfire, operating equipment, driving off-road on dry grass, or burning debris.
2. Build Your Campfire in a Safe Location
A campfire can be an enjoyable part of a camping trip, providing warmth, light, and a place to cook food or roast marshmallows. However, a campfire that is not built or extinguished properly can quickly become a wildfire.
When building a campfire, choose an open, flat location away from flammable materials such as logs, brush, grass, and decaying leaves or pine needles. Clear away grass, leaves, and needles until you reach mineral soil.
Use short pieces of firewood and keep them within the cleared area. Once you light the fire, stay with it at all times. Before leaving your campsite, make sure the fire is completely extinguished.
3. Know How to Properly Extinguish a Campfire
Knowing how to put out a campfire is just as important as knowing how to build one safely.
When you are ready to extinguish your campfire:
- Pour at least one bucket of water over the fire.
- Stir the ashes and embers.
- Add another bucket of water.
- Stir the fire again.
- Continue adding water and stirring until everything is completely cold to the touch.
Never leave a campfire until you are certain it is fully extinguished and cold.
4. Keep Your Vehicle Off Dry Grass
Off-roading can be fun, but driving or parking on dry grass can create a serious wildfire hazard. Vehicle exhaust systems can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat can ignite dry grass or heavy brush.
During dry seasons, drive and park on established roads, gravel, or asphalt whenever possible. Avoid parking on or driving through dry vegetation.
5. Maintain Your Vehicle and Equipment
Poorly maintained vehicles and equipment can create conditions that lead to wildfires. Make sure gas-powered equipment has a functioning spark arrestor to help prevent engines from emitting hot, flammable debris.
If you regularly drive or operate equipment in wildfire-prone areas, keep your vehicle properly maintained and address mechanical problems promptly. Before heading off-road, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and appropriate for the terrain.
6. Practice Vehicle Fire Safety
A working spark arrestor is an important part of vehicle and equipment safety, but there are additional precautions you can take.
Consider carrying a shovel, bucket, and fire extinguisher in your vehicle so you are prepared to respond to a small fire. If you do not have a bucket, another suitable container can be used to carry water.
Always follow local regulations and avoid activities that could create sparks or excessive heat during periods of elevated fire danger.
7. Check Your Trailer Tires, Bearings, and Axles
If you tow a trailer, take additional precautions to reduce the risk of starting a wildfire. Perform regular maintenance checks to make sure the tires are in good condition, bearings are properly lubricated, and axles are functioning correctly.
Also, make sure safety chains are properly secured and are not dragging on the ground. A poorly maintained trailer can produce sparks, which may be enough to ignite dry vegetation.
8. Keep Sparks Away From Dry Vegetation
Power tools, machinery, and other equipment can create sparks that may ignite dry grass, leaves, or brush.
Before using equipment that can generate sparks, clear dry vegetation and other flammable materials from the area. Take extra precautions when conditions are hot, dry, or windy.
Depending on the type of activity and local regulations, you may need to establish a cleared area around your workspace. Always follow applicable fire-safety guidelines.
Fireworks can be a popular way to celebrate the Fourth of July and other special occasions. However, they can also start fires, particularly during hot and dry conditions. Smoke bombs and similar products can also pose a wildfire risk.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fireworks started an estimated 34,079 fires in 2024. These included 3,246 structure fires, 857 vehicle fires, 29,517 outside fires, and 459 unclassified fires. The fires caused an estimated 59 civilian injuries and $98 million in direct property damage. In 2024, U.S. emergency rooms also treated an estimated 14,700 people for fireworks-related injuries.
Before using fireworks, check federal, state, county, and city regulations. Firework laws and restrictions can vary depending on where you live.
If conditions are too hot, dry, or windy for fireworks, consider safer alternatives such as glow sticks or other nonflammable decorations.
10. Burn Yard or Other Debris Safely
You may have leaves, agricultural waste, brush, or other materials that you want to burn. Before burning debris, check local laws and fire restrictions to make sure burning is permitted.
If you are allowed to burn debris, keep a garden hose, bucket of water, or another appropriate water source nearby. Never burn debris when conditions are windy, and never leave a burn pile unattended.
Preventing wildfires starts with making responsible decisions when using fire, vehicles, and outdoor equipment. Build and extinguish campfires properly, avoid driving or parking on dry grass, maintain vehicles and trailers, and keep sparks away from dry vegetation.
Most importantly, pay attention to weather conditions and local fire restrictions. By understanding potential fire hazards and taking appropriate precautions, you can help reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires and protect your family, community, property, and natural resources.