Fire Danger Key

LOW

  • Fires do not readily start.
  • Fires that do start spread slowly with low resistance to control.

MODERATE

  • Fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of starts is generally low.
  • Fires burn at moderate intensities, heavy fuel concentrations will burn hot.

HIGH

  • Fires start easily from most causes.
  • Control of fires can become difficult if initial attack not initiated promptly, especially in heavy fuels.
  • Most fires controlled within first burning period.

VERY HIGH

  • Fires start readily and spread quickly.
  • Resistance to control is high, as is the potential for large fires.
  • Fire behavior is often erratic,"blow up"potential is high.

EXTREME

  • Severe fire conditions, potential for fire disaster is high.
  • Direct attack of fires is virtually impossible, fires often escape initial attack.
  • Fire behavior is erratic, "blow ups" may be expected.
  • Resistance to control is high, fires not usually controlled until burning subsides.