Prevention
The US Forest Service has been managing and controlling wildfires for over 100 years. However, over the past few decades wildfires have been occurring much more frequently and more help is needed to help stop and prevent future wildfires. Although wildfires are an important part of many ecosystem’s lifecycles, humans have damaged this cycle. We can take simple steps to help prevent wildfires and better protect the environment.
Reduce Carbon Footprint
Reduce, reuse, and recycle. By taking these simple steps which you do in your daily life, you are cutting down on your carbon footprint. By reducing your carbon footprint, you are taking away one main environmental factor that causes wildfires.
Extinguish All Fires
If having a campfire, make sure to pour water over the flames and embers to ensure no fire is left behind. It is also important to properly dispose of cigarettes so they are not left next to a flammable item which could ignite a fire.
Use Caution with Flammables
When using propane grills, heaters, or stoves, be aware of your surroundings. Wait for all tools that use propane to cool off before refilling. Fireworks have been known to start large fires, make sure to only use in clear areas with no forests close by.