Oregon Wildfires - dangerous and up to 90% preventable

6/4/2020 (Permalink)

Did you know that up to 90% of wildfires are caused by humans?
The remaining 10% is usually lightning. Nature's fire starter.
In order for fire to happen, it needs fuel (this can be anything that is flammable or that will burn).
The second thing a fire needs to start is oxygen, no shortage of that.
The third factor, and really the key factor to what a fire needs to start, is a source of energy to kick-start the combustion reaction. In the summer months wildfires are more prevalent for many reasons, but it’s not because of the hot weather…the hot weather dries out trees and grass and landscapes, yes. It succeeds in making the environment more vulnerable to a fire once it’s started, but the starting of the fire itself…is mostly due to human negligence.
As we get outdoors in the Willamette valley this summer, remember to fully extinguish all campfires, remember to use fireworks only when allowed and gather the used fireworks and dispose of them in a non-flammable container, remember never to throw a cigarette on the ground. And yes, that includes from an open car window. This is not only dangerous, but a cigarette is not biodegradable. It won’t magically disappear, it won’t waste away over time, it will litter the ground and earth until a good Samaritan or a company like SERVPRO of Salem West is hired to clean up the area.
Let’s all take responsibility this summer to protect our environment and our neighbors from the dangers of wildfires. Let’s each do our part to keep our forests and homes safe. Let’s always remember to put the fire out, let's always remember to be responsible with throwing away cigarettes, let's use fireworks responsibly, and let's do what we can to educate and help our community stay informed on wildfire prevention.