Wildland Fire
There are three types of wildland fires. A surface fire is the most common type and burns along the floor of a forest, moving slowly and killing damaging trees. A ground fire is usually started by lightning and burns on or below the forest floor. Crown fires spread rapidly by wind and move quickly by jumping along the tops of trees. Wildland fires are usually signaled by dense smoke that fills the area for miles around.
Preparing for a Wildland Fire:
- Learn and teach safe fire practices. Build fires away from trees or bushes. Never leave a fire burning--even a cigarette.
- Obtain local building codes for structures near woods. Use fire-resistant materials when building and renovating.
- Avoid using wooden shakes and shingles for a roof. Use tile, stucco, metal siding, brick, concrete block, rock, other fire-resistant material.
- Create a safety zone separating the home from combustible vegetation. Stone walls deflect heat and flames. Swimming pools can be used as a safety zone.
- Check for fire hazards around home. Trim all trees and shrubs away from the home. Keep trees free of dead wood and moss. Remove all limbs and debris from gutters.
- Keep chimney clean.
- Install smoke detectors.
When a Wildfire is Headed Your Direction:
- Listen to a radio or television for latest fire information.
- Remove combustible items from around the house, such as lawn and pool furniture, umbrellas, tarps, and firewood.
- Take down flammable drapes and curtains and close all blinds or non-combustible window coverings.
- Be ready to evacuate when instructed to do so by officials.
- You cannot outrun a fire. Crouch in a pond or river. Cover head and upper body with wet clothing. If water is not around, look for shelter in a cleared area or among a bed of rocks. Lie flat and cover body with wet clothing or soil.
- Breathe the air close to the ground through a wet cloth to avoid scorching lungs or inhaling smoke.
After a Fire:
- Call professionals to inspect your home for safety.
- Be careful when entering a burned area. Hot spots can flare up without warning.
- Check the roof immediately and extinguish sparks or embers.
- Check the attic several times for smoke and hidden burning sparks or embers.
Page created and maintained by Vickie Hickman and Tift County CERT volunteers.
Last change: July 4, 2009
Copyright 2009, Vickie Hickman