Why We Do It
Wildfires are a growing threat to our homes, ecosystems, and way of life. At National Wildfire Prevention, we are dedicated to protecting communities, raising awareness, and taking proactive steps to mitigate the devastating impacts of wildfires.
Protecting communities, homes, and forests from wildfire devastation
Our work is inspired by addressing critical wildfire challenges, including:
Structures destroyed by wildfires.
2. Wildfires caused by wind-driven embers.
3. Large-scale tree die-offs.
4. The role of climate change.
5. Human activity as a leading cause of wildfires.
6. Loss of biodiversity and wildlife habitats.
7. The economic impact of wildfires.
The Alarming Statistics:
The destruction of homes and structures has reached unprecedented levels:
• 2020: Over 17,000 structures were destroyed in California alone, with the Camp Fire responsible for over 13,000 of them.
• 2023: Nationwide, more than 4,300 structures, including homes and businesses, were lost to wildfires.
Why It Matters:
Wildfires now threaten suburban and urban areas, not just wilderness. For every structure lost, families are displaced, and entire communities are forever changed.
Our Focus:
We reduce wildfire risks by creating defensible spaces, clearing brush, and pruning trees to protect homes and prevent fires from spreading.
2. Wildfires Caused by Wind-Driven Embers
The Hidden Danger: Wind-driven embers, or “firebrands,” can travel up to 1 mile ahead of a wildfire, igniting rooftops, dry vegetation, and other flammable materials.
Why It Matters:
• Up to 90% of homes destroyed by wildfires are ignited by embers, not direct flames.
• Ember-caused spot fires spread rapidly, turning small fires into catastrophic events.
Our Focus:
We prepare homes by clearing gutters, removing flammable debris, and promoting fire-resistant landscaping.
A Silent Crisis: Millions of trees are dying due to drought, heat stress, and pests, creating vast amounts of dry fuel for wildfires. Between 2010 and 2022, over 150 million trees died in California alone.
Why It Matters: Tree die-offs create dangerous conditions, worsen wildfires, and release stored carbon, contributing to climate change.
Our Focus:
While we can’t stop tree die-offs directly, we raise awareness about their role in wildfire risks and advocate for long-term forest health solutions.
The Bigger Picture:
Climate change amplifies wildfire risks by:
• Extending fire seasons.
• Increasing droughts and heatwaves.
• Drying out vegetation, creating more fuel for fires.
Why It Matters: Without addressing climate change, all other wildfire challenges will worsen over time.
Our Focus: To educate communities about sustainable practices and encourage fire-resistant landscaping to mitigate local risks.
Unintended Ignitions: Human activity causes 85% of wildfires, including campfires, sparks from machinery, and improper debris burning.
Why It Matters: Human-caused wildfires are preventable but remain a leading cause of destruction.
Our Focus: We raise awareness and partner with local organizations to promote fire-safe behavior and outdoor responsibility.
Ecological Impact: Wildfires destroy ecosystems, displacing or killing wildlife and obliterating habitats. Repeated fires can lead to permanent biodiversity loss.
Why It Matters: Healthy forests support wildlife, clean air, and water cycles. Their destruction affects both humans and nature.
Our Focus: We support conservation initiatives and educate communities on the importance of biodiversity in fire prevention.
The Cost of Recovery:
Wildfires cause billions of dollars in damages annually, including:
• Rebuilding homes and infrastructure.
• Economic losses in industries like tourism, agriculture, and timber.
Why It Matters: Wildfires place a financial burden on individuals, businesses, and governments.
Our Focus: We advocate for cost-effective prevention measures, which are far less expensive than recovery efforts.