What Causes Forest Fires?
(Get answers and the security you need from an expert.)
Written by
Written by
Ashley Surinak
Insurance doesn’t have to be boring. That’s why we hired Ashley Surinak to be our BA insurance writer. Ashley specializes in making mundane subjects hella-entertaining.
Updated
Q: What causes forest fires?
A: There are two primary causes of forest fires:
- Human: Humans cause 85 to 90% of all forest fires. These fires are due to things like unattended camp and debris fires, cigarettes that have not been put out properly, or even arson.
- Natural: Although only a small percentage of forest fires are due to natural causes, they happen. These wildfires spark due to dry weather and droughts in areas that are typically home to lush vegetation. Combined with warm temperatures and ignition such as from lightning, wildfires can spark and start. Strong winds spread the fires, turning them into wildfires.
It doesn't take much to start a forest fire. And because the majority of forest fires are from human conduct, it's important to be careful if you're ever camping or in a wooded area. You never know when a forest fire could start.