Fire Danger Class Color Codes |
Descriptions |
Low (L) (Green) |
Fuels do not ignite readily from small
firebrands although a more intense heat source, such as lightning, may start
fires in duff or punky wood. Fires in open cured grasslands may burn freely a
few hours after rain, but woods fires spread slowly by creeping or smoldering,
and burn in irregular fingers. There is little danger of spotting. |
Moderate (M) (Light Blue) |
Fires can start from most accidental causes
but, with the exception of lightning fires in some areas, the number of starts
is generally low. Fires in open cured grasslands 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,
especially draped fuel, may burn hot. Short-distance spotting may occur, but is
not persistent. Fires are not likely to become serious and control is
relatively easy. |
High (H) (Yellow) |
Fires start easily from all causes and,
immediately after ignition, spread rapidly and increase quickly in intensity.
Spot fires are a constant danger. Fires burning in light fuels may quickly
develop high intensity characteristics such as long-distance spotting and fire
whirlwinds when they burn into heavier fuels. |
Extreme (E) (Red) |
Fires start quickly, spread furiously, and
burn intensely. All fires are potentially serious. Development into high
intensity burning will usually be faster and occur from smaller fires than in
the high fire danger class. Direct attack is rarely possible and may be
dangerous except immediately after ignition. Fires that develop headway in
heavy slash or in conifer stands may be unmanageable while the extreme burning
condition lasts. Under these conditions the only effective and safe control
action is on the flanks until the weather changes or the fuel supply
lessens. |