Not always, it depends on the intensity of the fire and the type of forest. In Florida, mature stands of Longleaf Pine will often leaf back out and survive a wildfire, while a wildfire in stands of hardwood trees (like maple, oaks and beech trees) will kill most of the trees. Wildfires almost always make trees more susceptible to forest insects and diseases.
What are the 3 leading causes of wildfires in Florida?
1. Arson
2. Escaped debris or trash fires
3. Lightning
How are forests restored after a wildfire?
Following severe wildfires, an effort is usually made by the landowner to salvage (cut and sell) the larger trees as soon as possible. Typically, the burned forest is then cleared of the remaining debris by heavy equipment like bulldozers, and one-year-old pine seedlings are planted within a year. Within four years the trees will be taller than most of us.
When is fire prevention week designated and why?
The second week in October to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, which occurred on October 9, 1871. Over 250 people were killed in this fire, 100,000 were left homeless, and 17,400 structures were destroyed in one day. The first observance of this week was in 1922 when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it National Fire Prevention Week..
When is Wildfire Awareness Week in Florida?
Governor Jeb Bush declared that the second week in April would be Wildfire Awareness Week in Florida and urged all citizens to recognize this important observance by becoming more aware of how to protect themselves and their property from the devastation of wildfires.
What is the mission of the Division of Forestry?
Our Mission is to protect and manage Florida's forest
resources through a stewardship ethic to assure
these resources will be available for future generations.
How can I become a Forest Ranger?
To find out more about working as a Forest Ranger or Forestry professional check out our web site at
How many wildfires were started by children during the Florida Firestorm of 1998? How about in 1999?
The Division of Forestry keeps statistics on the number of wildfires and causes of those wildfires on our website at http://flame.fl-dof.com/General/firestat.html. Check it out.
What is Prescribed burning or prescribed fire?
The controlled application of fire to existing naturally occurring fuels, under specified environmental conditions, following appropriate precautionary measures. This practice allows the fire to be confined to a predetermined area and accomplishes the planned land management objectives.
What are some of the benefits of Prescribed Burning?
The public benefits from prescribed fire are numerous.
Here are 6 examples:
1.FUEL REDUCTION FOR FIRE PROTECTION
2.SITE PREPARATION FOR REFORESTATION
3.IMPROVEMENT OF WILDLIFE HABITAT
4.IMPROVED RANGE CONDITIONS FOR LIVESTOCK
5.CONTROL OF FOREST DISEASES
6.MAINTENANCE AND RESTORATION OF DESIRED PLANT AND ANIMAL COMMUNITIES
How can I prevent wildfires from destroying my home?
If your home is located near a forested area, there are a number of precautions that you can take to increase the chances of your home surviving a wildfire. Two of the most important are: (1) leave a minimum of 30 feet of defensible space around your home as access for emergency vehicles, and (2) be sure your address is clearly visible from the nearest road so emergency vehicles can find your home. Additional safety precautions for homeowners can be found a the firewise website at http://firewise.org.
How do I report a wildfire?
Call 911 or your local Division of Forestry Office.
Can I receive a reward for turning in an Arsonist?
Yes you can, call the ARSON ALERT HOTLINE at 1-800-342-5869. The caller can remain anonymous, and could receive a reward up to $5,000.00, if your information leads to the arrest of a woods arsonist.
