Fire Danger

What do the colors mean?

The fire danger rating sign aims to prevent wildfires by raising awareness of the potential for ignition and spread. It considers factors like fuel size, arrangement, moisture content, and temperature. Since these factors change daily and across regions, the signs use air temperature to display the Fire Danger Rating. Wind plays a crucial role in influencing wildfire spread.

Low (Green) 

Fuels do not ignite readily from small firebrands. A more intense heat source such as lightning or matches may start fires in duff or grasslands. Fires in cured grassland or meadows may burn freely a few hours after rain; however, in woods and conifer stands, fires may spread slowly by creeping or smoldering. There is little danger of spot fires.

Moderate (Blue) 

Fires can start from most accidental causes; however, with the exception of lightning fires, the number of ignitions is generally low. Fires in open grassland or meadows will burn briskly and spread rapidly on windy days. Timber fires spread slowly to moderately fast. The average fire is of moderate intensity, although heavy concentrations of fuel may burn with more intensity. Short-distance spot fires may occur. Fires are generally not likely to become serious and control is relatively easy.

High (Yellow) 

All fine dead fuels ignite readily and fires start from most causes. Unattended brush and campfires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly and short-distance spot fires are common. High-intensity burning may develop on slopes or in concentrations of fine fuels. Fires may become serious and their control may be difficult. NO open slash burning or large burn piles are allowed. Recreational campfires (less than 3 feet in diameter and 2 feet high) are permitted unless there is a state or county burn ban in effect.

Very High (Orange)

Fires start easily from all causes and immediately after ignition, spread rapidly and increase quickly in intensity. Spot fires are a constant danger. Crown fires may be present and move aggressively during a wind event. Fires burning in light fuels may quickly develop high intensity characteristics such as long-distance spot fires.

Extreme (Red) 

Fires can ignite swiftly, rapidly extend, and intensify in their burning. Every fire carries the potential for extreme seriousness. A direct assault is seldom feasible and could be perilous, except in the immediate aftermath of ignition. Fires gaining momentum in dense slash, jackstraw, blowdown, or coniferous stands may become uncontrollable. In such scenarios, the most effective and safe control measures are to be implemented on the flanks and heel of the fire. All suppression personnel must exercise extreme caution under these circumstances.