Why we should be happy that we live in this area

[fisheye]

Originally Posted by Gerania

Yes, most forest fires are caused by people. I read that one in Oregon was started by teens setting off fireworks. They lit them and threw them into a ravine. Some smokers still flick their lit cigarettes. Illegal campers start one once in a while. Then there are the arsonists. I read about one huge fire that was started by a volunteer forest firefighter. I guess he was tired of waiting.

Most fires are set by humans. In this one case (http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/l...019-story.html) it set off a debate in California about illegal immigration. However; many Western forest fires are also started by lightning - which we would think is an oxymoron. We associate lightning with rain and putting out forest fires. But sometimes lightning hits trees that are dry and smolder for days after the rain is over or it strikes areas that never get a drop of rain (which is common out West).

By the way, on your comment about the fire started by a volunteer firefighter: On one short road by me; three different volunteer firefighters have had fires at their houses over the last thirty years. As far as I know; no other property owners have had house fires (coincidence/maybe?). While I do appreciate everything that our volunteers do; I am afraid that some, that have a fondness for fire, are attracted to the job. I hope that none are offended by my remark; I repeat that I respect what they do.

[Gerania]

I'm not easily offended. You'll hear about it if it happens. I can be as loud as a gaggle of geese.

I know that there are still fire towers in the NJ Pine Barrens. They are manned during high risk times. There are Smokey Bear signs, too. The fire risk today is: whatever it is. That whole area is just waiting to go up in flames. There are controlled burns every year, but they are behind. I read a Barrens board, and a couple of fire service guys post.

[fisheye]

Just one more reason we should appreciate our area more: Paris Hilton and Chelsea Handler flee California wildfire | Daily Mail Online! At least we do not have the Santa Ana winds!