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What are the 3 leading causes of wildfires? 1. Arson 2. Escaped debris or trash fires 3. Equipment use 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. What is the mission of the Division of Forestry? Our Mission is to protect and enhance the forest resources of the Commonwealth through a public informed of the environmental and economic importance of these resources. 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: http://www.forestry.ky.gov . 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? There are a number of precautions you can take to increase the chances of your home surviving a wildfire. Use the checklist included in these materials to evaluate your home, or call your local forestry office and ask a representative to help you. You can also get tips from the FIREWISE web site at www.firewise.org. How do I report a wildfire? Call your local Forestry office. Can I receive a reward for turning in an Arsonist? Yes, you can, call the TARGET ARSON HOTLINE at 1-800-27-ARSON. The caller can remain anonymous, and can receive a reward up to $1,000.00, if your information leads to the arrest of a woods arsonist. What are the common tools that Forest Rangers use to fight wildfires? Fire rakes, pumper trucks, blowers, Pulaskis (combination of an ax and hoe), bulldozers, helicopters, and back pack pumps. When are Kentucky's forest fire hazard seasons? Kentucky has two forest fire hazard seasons. The seasons are February 15 through April 30 and October 1 through December 15. Can I burn during fire season? Yes you can but only between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., prevailing local time, or when the ground is covered with snow. If a county has issued a NO BURNING BAN you cannot burn even during these hours What do you mean by Wildland/Urban Interface? Areas where homes meet the forest are called the Wildland/Urban Interface.
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