WILDFIRE

Wildfire is a highly flammable composition, difficult to extinguish when ignited, formerly used in warfare. Wildfires occur on every continent except Antarctica. Fossil records and human history contain accounts of wildfires, as wildfires can occur in periodic intervals. Wildfires can cause extensive damage, both to property and human life, but they also have various beneficial effects on wilderness areas. Some plant species depend on the effects of fire for growth and reproduction


Many fires are started as a result of debris burning. Often these fires are rekindled, in some cases several days after the fire is thought to be out, when air temperature, wind speed and relative humidity come together to create conditions favorable for fires to burn and spread. Wildfires also caused due to lightning occur at a frequency of three to five per year. Since lightning is usually associated with rain, such wildfires do not spread over large areas. Very often, underground coal fires cause wildfires. Underground coal fires are the slow and
flameless forms of combustion, below the earth's surface. Such fires continue to burn for many years,
resulting in the release of toxic fumes and destruction of vegetation and human property.


Immediately put out all smoking materials and other open flames. Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones, or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire, if gas smells.

Wildfire