Siuslaw National Forest
4077 S.W. Research Way
P.O. Box 1148
Corvallis, Oregon 97339
(541) 750-7000
Fax: (541) 750-7234
TTY for hearing & speech impaired:
(Oregon Relay)
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Fire Danger Level (Public Awareness Class)
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: Fire & Aviation : Fire Danger Level
(Public Awareness Class)
Low |
Fuels do not ignite readily from small firebrands, although
a more intense heat source such as lightning may start many
fires in duff or punky wood. Fires in open cured grassland
may burn freely a few hours after rain, but woods fire spread
slowly by creeping or smoldering, and burn in irregular
fingers. There is little danger of spotting. The color code
is green.
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Moderate |
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 grassland will
burn briskly and spread rapidly on windy days. Wood 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. The color
code is blue.
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High |
All fine dead fuels ignite readily
and fires start easily from any cause. Unattended brush and
campfires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly and short-distance
spotting is common. High intensity burning may develop on
slopes, or in concentrations of fine fuel. Fire may become
serious and their control difficult unless they are hit hard
and fast while small. The color code is yellow. |
Extreme |
Fires under extreme conditions 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 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 conditions last. Under these conditions, the only
effective and safe control action is on the flanks until
the weather changes, or the fuel supply lessens. The color
code is red.
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