![Wildfire California Santa Clarita [ Image credit - Wikimedia Commons - wikimedia.org]](https://staticr1.blastingcdn.com/media/photogallery/2017/10/14/660x290/b_502x220x82/filewildfire-california-santa-claritajpg-wikimedia-commons-wikimediaorg_1630631.jpg "Wildfire California Santa Clarita [ Image credit - Wikimedia Commons - wikimedia.org]")
Wildfires in California have destroyed wine growing regions and are spreading fast. According to the New York Times, 22 large fires were ablaze on Wednesday, and have burned 170,000 acres. The fires have spread so fast that the fire officials are battling to slow them down. The Wildfires In California are devastating to the people they affect, as they burn down plants, kill animals, and destroy their homes. Even though scientists have claimed that fires are good for forests the random fires in California are too hot and make it very difficult for the forest to recover.
Wildfires can be avoided
If people are careful with fire, don’t misuse matches, and carefully watch their campfires, they can prevent wildfires. Many experts point out that sticking to campfire rules can prevent the wildfires. There should not be fires at sites during hazardous dry conditions as these can trigger a wildfire. Also, don’t build a campfire if the campground rules do not allow it as there must be serious reasons for the prohibition. A fire must be built at least fifteen feet from the edge of tents, dry brush, or walls that can catch fire. Areas, where there are overhanging tree branches, should be avoided.
Listen to weather warnings
People should also take heed of fire warnings before starting a fire, as it can prevent a major wildfire.
The National Weather Service issues warnings about where a fire is likely to start. In such areas, people should think twice before igniting a match or a lighter. If people are living in an area where a red alert has been issued, they should create a 30-foot safe zone around the house by clearing dry grass or bush and keeping the grass short.
From this zone, all inflammable material such as fuel, chemicals, and wood should be removed. All tanks, bathtubs, and swimming pools should be filled with water.
How are wildfires extinguished?
The fire officials are fighting bravely. They use several strategies to prevent damage to human life and property. Where it is safe, they burn a firebreak around the perimeter of a forest fire by burning off dry plants.
When the fire is close, they use the closest water source to create a firebreak, and in some cases, they use a suppressant foam. Air-tankers also dump fire retardants and chemicals on the fire. Currently, pilotless Air Tankers are being developed that spray ammonium phosphate over the fires. In the context of the current California fire, their task is formidable.
