California is experiencing a devastating wildfire season with over 6,484 wildfires having burned over 1.25 million acres of land so far in 2021, higher than the same time last year. Reckless human activities are the leading cause, accounting for about 90% of the wildfires. Such activities include starting campfires in undesignated areas, throwing cigarette butts out of car windows, and carelessly discarding glass bottles that can magnify the sun’s rays. The Dixie fire, which started in mid-July, has destroyed thousands of structures and burned more than 705,000 acres, making it the state’s second-largest wildfire. All visitors and residents of the state are urged to follow basic safety measures to prevent further wildfires.

California Wildfires Continue to Rage On as Fire Starters Pose a Dangerous Threat

Introduction

The residents of California have been in high alert as wildfire season has been in full swing, causing havoc and destroying homes and properties. The 2021 wildfire season has been particularly devastating, as wildfires have been raging on for weeks, with no signs of slowing down. The number of wildfires and the intensity of each fire have caught the attention of experts and locals alike, highlighting the danger posed by wildfires and those who start them.

California Wildfires Rages On

As this year’s wildfire season rages on, the number of wildfires and their intensity continue to grow. Reports from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) reveal that over 6,484 wildfires have burned over 1.25 million acres of land in 2021. This figure is already significantly higher than what was recorded at the same time during the 2020 wildfire season.

The Dixie fire, which started in mid-July, has been particularly severe, destroying thousands of structures and causing thousands to be evacuated from their homes. The fire has burned over 705,000 acres of land and has been declared the second-largest wildfire in California’s history. With the wildfire season far from over, California residents are bracing themselves for more destruction and potential loss of life.

Fire Starters Continue to Pose a Danger

Wildfires can be caused by several factors, including natural causes such as lightning strikes, but human activities remain the leading cause of wildfires in California. Human-caused wildfires make up about 90% of all wildfires in California, and range from accidental causes such as sparks from power lines, equipment malfunctions, or campfires left unattended, to intentional arson.

The reckless and negligent behavior of some individuals have caused widespread destruction and loss of life in California. In the current wildfire season, several fire starters have been arrested for starting wildfires through such reckless behavior.

While some fires are started intentionally for reasons such as insurance fraud or to conceal a crime, most wildfires are started by reckless behavior such as starting campfires in undesignated areas, throwing cigarette butts out of car windows, and even carelessly discarding glass bottles that can magnify the sun’s rays.

FAQs

Q: What can I do to prevent wildfires?

A: You can ensure that you follow basic safety measures, such as not leaving any fires unattended, extinguish cigarettes safely, not burning debris on windy days, and properly maintain your vehicles and equipment to avoid sparks.

Q: Can I start fires in designated areas?

A: Yes, you can start fires in designated campgrounds and recreational areas. Ensure that you follow all safety procedures, including providing additional water or dirt to extinguish the fire when you’re done.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally start a wildfire?

A: Call 911 immediately and provide as much information as possible. Ensure that you stay in the area to meet with the authorities when they arrive.

Conclusion

The 2021 wildfire season in California has been unprecedented, with the number and intensity of wildfires far exceeding what the state has experienced in previous years. While natural factors such as climate change contribute to the intensity of wildfires, human activities, especially those that are reckless or intentional, remain the leading cause of wildfires in California. All residents and visitors to California must remain vigilant and follow basic safety measures to prevent wildfires, protect their lives, and those of their loved ones.