Wildfires
Photo: Mark Doliner from San Mateo, CA, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Wildfires (called bushfires in Australia and hill fires in Hong Kong), including forest fires, are a major concern when travelling overland, or camping. Whilst some regions have a higher risk factor for wildfires, they can occur in many climates and almost all types of vegetation. An exceptionally dry summer, for example, will also raise the risk in a region not otherwise associated with wildfires. While wildfires can start naturally, such as from a lightning strike, they often start accidentally from campfires, smoking, damaged electrical equipment, hot car engines and other human causes. In some areas they are also deliberately started by farmers to clear land for cultivation.
Your twin goals are to not start a wildfire, and to avoid any that happen to be in your area.
WeatherThe weather is beyond your control, but you can reduce the risk of starting a wildfire or getting caught in one by knowing what's going on.
PreventionYou do not want to start a wildfire. One cigarette stump in the wrong place can cause destruction of vast areas. A wildfire can also be started by something as simple as improperly discarded trash.
RisksYou can get trapped in a wildfire. Wildfires can spread fast in windy conditions. In addition to the fire-front advancing at speed, glowing matter can fly with the wind an ignite a new wildfire further downwind.
Get helpIf you do see any suspicious smoke, don't be afraid to call the authorities.
After a fireAfter the fire has been extinguished, a burnt forest may be dangerous, as the roots have been damaged. Wait until the area is declared safe or a strong wind storm has blown down the weakened trees.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Wildfires" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Mark Doliner from San Mateo, CA, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons