August 18 marks World Forest Fire Prevention Day, which aims to raise awareness among the population about the need to care for and preserve the forests of planet Earth, redouble precautions, and do everything possible to prevent forest fires.
What is a forest fire?
A forest fire is the rapid and uncontrolled spread of fire that affects forests, plains, grasslands, and other areas.
Causes of forest fires
95% of forest fires are caused by humans, with the main scenarios being:
- Campfires and cigarette butts that have not been properly extinguished
- Land abandonment
- Preparation of grazing areas with fire.
Climatic factors such as lack of rainfall, high temperatures, low humidity, constant frosts, and strong winds contribute to their spread. Therefore, we must be very cautious, especially when these conditions occur, to prevent fires from spreading.
How can we prevent forest fires?
According to Argentina’s National System for Comprehensive Risk Management, it is important to keep these recommendations in mind to prevent forest fires:
- Avoid smoking and throwing matches, cigarette butts, or broken bottles on the ground, as they can cause fires due to the intensity of the sun.
- Do not throw trash in the countryside, especially bottles and pieces of glass, because they act as an incentive for the production of fire.
- If you make a campfire, place stones around the fire and, after extinguishing it with water or earth, make sure you have done so correctly by removing the ashes.
- Avoid lighting fires during dry seasons.
- If you are on a road and see a forest fire, notify the fire department immediately. Remember that a column of smoke means there is a possibility of a forest fire.
If you live in an area at risk of forest fires:
- Do not pile logs or branches near your home. Keep the grass short and build a defense line at least 3 meters wide with no vegetation around your home.
- Keep roofs, gutters, and drains free of leaves and branches, as these are combustible materials that feed the fire.
- If you have a swimming pool, keep it filled with water throughout the year, as it can be used by firefighters to control the spread of fire.
- If you have gas pipes or a butane gas tank, it is important to seek advice on the appropriate safety regulations.
- If you have tanks containing liquid fuels (such as gasoline), make sure they are located in areas free of trash or firewood and away from sunlight. Place informative signs in plain view.
