One of the largest threats a forest faces is fire. A fire can begin in seconds, but it is not always so easy to stop. All it takes is a smoldering match, a strike of lightning, or an ember from a vacated campfire to start dry or dead leaves and branches burning. Forest fires can spread very rapidly, and don't only mean danger for the plants and animals that live in them, but for people, homes, and other buildings in the surrounding environment. When the weather is hot, dry, windy, or the conditions are right for a thunderstorm, the danger of forest fire is present.
Foresters keep a constant watch for early signs or warnings of fire.
Forestry firefighters study daily weather conditions and develop new methods for fighting and controlling wildfires. These small, controlled areas of fire clear excess debris and undergrowth before they have a chance to provide more fuel to a raging wildfire. Practicing forest safety is crucial to the preservation of the forest environment. You should always be careful and aware of your surroundings when out in the woods. Make sure a campfire is put out completely, and never ignore a glowing ember.