Annual Forest Fire Prevention Campaign Begins
Each year, thousands of hectares of Chilean forests are impacted by fires, 99% of which are caused by human action, including poorly extinguished campfires or cigarettes, unauthorized burns or intentional actions.
A forest fire is a “fire which, regardless of its origin, propagates without control in rural areas through live or dead woody, bushy or herbaceous vegetation.” In other words, these fires do not only burn trees, but destroy an entire ecosystem of wild plant species and the animals that live in those areas.
What causes forest fires?
Fires develop due to three factors: heat, oxygen, and flammable material. However, a fourth factor to consider is the direct action of human beings in these incidents.
99% of these incidents are a result of human action due to neglect, carelessness or a lack of skill.
When are they most likely to occur?
Statistics suggest that forest fires occur most frequently between October and April due to the climate that exists in a large part of the nation. Given that these months coincide with the busiest times for visitors in rural and touristic areas such as parks, national reserves, and areas of vegetation in general, care should be taken any time one engages in an activity that involves heat sources. Experts also recommend avoiding the use of fire as a tool for silvo-agricultural work.
How to Prevent Forest Fires
- If you go on vacation in a rural park, national reserve or vegetated area in general, be careful with campfires, matches, and poorly extinguished cigarettes.
- Don’t start a campfire in an area in which such activity is prohibited, and always practice “campfire safety.” In other words, be sure that there is a firebreak at a prudent distance, start the fire away from any trees, and use dry wood.
- Do not use combustibles in campfires and be sure to have sand, dirt or water on hand in case of emergency.
- You should always notify authorities before a burn and follow CONAF protocols. If you fail to notify authorities, you will be in violation of the law.
- It is important for rural roadways to be cleared of any vegetation that is prone to catch fire.