Forest fires The main forest’s enemy Forests have many enemies, but the greatest one is fire. What do forest fires mean? Forest fires are large uncontrolled fires that take place in the forest. The greater is the proportion of pine and fir in the forest, the greater is the possibility of inflammation The main causes of forest fires Human activities •It can be carelessness such as not putting out a campfire or dropping a lit cigarette. •It may also be arson, which is setting a fire on purpose and is against the law. Natural causes •There are fires that are started by natural causes, for example. by lightning or even high temperatures. •Other natural causes include volcanic eruptions and sparks from falling rocks. Carelessness of people •Pranks with matches in a forested area. •Burning of dry grass near the forest. How do forest fires spread? Weather Fuel The weather has a large impact on how a Fires need fuel to burn. The type of fire will spread. Fires are much more likely fuel will impact how quickly the to start and spread during droughts when the fire will spread as well as how grass and plants are dry. A strong wind can intense it will be. In a forest there help a fire to spread and move quickly. The can be plenty of fuel including high temperature and dry air will also trees, leaves, shrubs and grasses. impact how well the fire will spread. Topography The topography is the shape and features of the land where the fire is burning. Fire tends to move faster uphill. Fires may spread quickly up steep slopes on the sides of mountains. How do firefighters put fires out? Forest fires can be extremely difficult to put out or control. Forest fires can be enormous in size and may quickly change directions. They can move over 7 miles per hour and can jump over natural gaps such as rivers and roads. That being said, modern firefighters are well trained and know how to control forest fires. Two main techniques for controlling forest fires The firebreak The air drop One of the best ways to stop a fire is to get rid of the Sometimes firefighters will use airplanes and fuel (trees, grass, etc.) that is helping it to burn. helicopters to drop water or special Firefighters will often remove the fuel in a long firefighting chemicals on fires from the air. line ahead of the where the fire is advancing. This These aircraft can carry thousands of gallons line is called a firebreak. When the fire reaches of liquid or gel to drop on hard to reach areas the firebreak, it runs out of fuel and stops of the fire. spreading. REMEMBER: Do not drop to the ground burning matches or cigarette! Do not kindle fires in fire period! Do not burn trash in the woods! RUSSIA The greatest number of fires was recorded in the republics of Komi, Sakha (Yakutia) and Karelia, Arkhangelsk region: there were registered 16 major forest fires. On the lands, which are under special state protection, fires were recorded. The main cause of fires began to dry thunderstorms. Thanks! CREDITS: This presentation template was created by Slidesgo, and includes icons by Flaticon, and infographics & images by Freepik