Wildfire Lesson Plans

Wildfires cause devastation to beautiful forests and natural areas. Fires have the potential of spreading to areas occupied by people, even into the heart of urban developments. As the flames flash and burn, the fire eats away memories, homes and lives. In some cases, the fires are started by the combination of dry conditions and the innocent use of a power tool, or even a bolt of lightning. In other cases, the cause isn't so innocent. Wildfires can be started by a careless person, or an arsonist with a purpose.

A wildfire is identified by its size, the speed at which it can expand, and its ability to cross hurdles such as roads, rivers and even fire breaks. The weather is a primary factor in creating optimal conditions for a fire. Heat waves, drought, El Nino, among other weather patterns can increase the potential of a wildfire occurring.

Wildfires can and have occurred on every continent, except Antarctica. The havoc wrecked upon an area is visible, but what is not so obvious is the life that springs up afterwards. According to Science Buzz, "Most forest trees need to be exposed to fire every 50 to 100 years to invigorate new growth. As we found out in Yellowstone National Park nearly 20 years ago, suppressing forest fires too long can actually be detrimental to forests. Extreme efforts to prevent forest fires there led to a huge consumption of trees when fire finally broke out."

Safety is a concern for people going to or living near forested areas. Several websites list vital information on wildfires. The National Parks Traveler helps notify visitors with about possible wildfire danger at National Parks. The National Interagency Fire Center has phone numbers, status reports and locations of fires. FEMA lists specific preparations a family can do before, during and after a wildfire.

While people can not change weather conditions or stop lightning from striking, behaviors and practices around forests can help reduce a potential outbreak from occurring. The iconic Smokey the Bear has a website that is great for kids to interact and explore. There are teacher's guides, activity books and other resources, which are all downloadable. In honor of Fire Safety Month this October, teachers can talk to students about protecting themselves in the advent of a fire and how smoke detectors work.

Another way to discuss fire prevention is to discuss how people use slash and burn techniques to clear vast amounts of land for farming. These bring in the hot topics of environmentalism and ecology. The lessons below are great additions to help students learn more about wildfires, and fire safety.

Wildfire and Fire Safety Lesson Plans:

Fire and Fire Suppression, students will examine assumptions about fire and fire suppression. The introductions of fire management in ecosystems will be shown with an online video.

Check Your Home Inside and Out will have children examine their home for fire safety. There is a great list of items that fall in different cost spectrums which help families implement proper safety.

Taking a Stand: Pros and Cons of Forest Fires have students understand the impact of forest fires and the environment. Children will get to decide and make an opinion on the practice of controlled burning.