Back to School - Be Prepared
Wildland Fires
Drought
Additional Preparedness Resources     

       Wildland Fires     

Tips and information about wildland fires:

• Wildfire Fact Sheet (PDF)
• Fire information and prevention (DNR):
  • Home safety (Word)
  • How to protect your home (PDF)
  • What to do if a wildfire approaches (PDF)
• Wildland fires in Washington state (PDF)
• "Living with Fire" - an educational game that puts you in the place of a fire manager.

Wildland Fires

Wildland fires are fires that are caused by nature or humans. These fires can result in the uncontrolled destruction of forests, field crops, grasslands, and property.

The wildland fire season in Washington usually begins in early July and typically culminates in late September. However, wildland fires have occurred in every month of the year. Drought, snow pack, and other local weather conditions can extend the length of the fire season.

Wildland fires can quickly spread and exceed fire suppression capabilities. Create a 'safe zone' or defensible space to protect your home and property.

 

       Drought     

Tips and information about drought:

• Tips for Drought Preparedness
• Drought Hazard Profile (PDF)
• Drought Information Center (NOAA)

Drought

Drought is a prolonged period of dryness severe enough to reduce soil moisture, water and snow levels below the minimum necessary for sustaining plant, animal, and economic systems.

Droughts are a natural part of the climate cycle. In the past century, Washington State has experienced a number of drought episodes, including several that lasted for more than a single season – 1928 to 1932, 1992 to 1994, and 1996 to 1997.

Reduced precipitation during a drought means that groundwater supplies are not replenished at a normal rate. This can lead to a reduction in groundwater levels and problems such as reduced pumping capacity or wells going dry. During drought, or severe dry periods, conservation measures should be taken.