We always talk about the tragedies caused by fires to our livelihood. Mostly because of the effects it has and the fatalities it causes. But here is the thing, fire is not all bad. Wildfires benefits our ecosystem handsomely if in control. Fire that is low in intensity and does not grow out of control benefits us as well as other living organisms.
What are the benefits of wildfire to the ecosystem?
- Wildfire helps in cleaning the forest floors
By removing growing underbrush, cleaning the forest floor, and nourishing the soil for new and healthier trees; low intense wildfires play a vital role in the balance of the ecosystem. Wildfires benefits the ecosystem by clearing the weaker trees and debris and returns health to the forest. The burning of the forest floor with low intensity flames helps prevent large damaging wildfire that spread out of control and destroy forests and in some cases, moves to people’s habitat.
2. Helps kill or combat disease
Due to pests’ infestation, many trees die. These pests target the part of trees that provide the soil with healthy nutrients. As a result, many trees die yearly. Low-intensity Fire in the wild helps restore the trees while killing these insects and the diseases they come with.
3. Provides new habitat
The wilderness provides habitat and shelter to wildlife like wild animals and birds. Fire clears wildlands of heavy brush creating more room for new grass, herbs and regenerated shrubs that provide food and habitat for many wildlife species. When fire removes a thick stand of shrubs, the water supply is increased. With fewer plants absorbing water, streams and rivers are fuller, thereof benefiting not just plants and animals but humans too.
Related Topic: Top 5 Causes of Wildfires
4. Creates new generation
A healthy forest is one that supports change. Some trees and plants dependent on fire to exist. These plants and trees are fire resistant and consist of bark and cones that require heat to open and release seeds for regeneration. Chaparral plants, like the manzanita, chamise and scrub oak require heat for seed germination. Without fire, these trees and plants would succumb to old age with no new generations to carry on and eventually go extinct.
How to prevent wildfire from spreading into homes and buildings?
Even with its vital role to the ecosystem, wildfires can have catastrophic results if out of control. It is then of importance to have in place safety measures to prevent it from harming human life and property.
- Buildings, private properties and homes must have fire extinguishers and fire alarm systems
- Move all flammable material from exterior walls
- Clean gutters of dead leaves to prevent it catching embers and resulting in fire
Prana FM is always on standby to solve any fire related problem you may experience.
