WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? RESTRICTION DEFINITIONS
Low Danger
Fuels do not ignite readily from small firebrands although a more intense heat
source, such as lightning, may start fires in duff or punky (insect killed) wood.
Weather and fuel conditions will lead to slow fire spread, low intensity and
relatively easy control with light mop‐up. There is little danger of spotting.
Controlled burns can usually be executed with reasonable safety.
Moderate Danger
Fires can start from most accidental causes, but with the exception of lightning
fires in some areas, the number of starts is generally low. Expect moderate flame
length and rate of spread. Short‐distance spotting may occur, but is not persistent.
Fires are not likely to become serious and control is relatively easy. Although
controlled burning can be done without creating a hazard, routine caution should
be taken.
High Danger
All fine and dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most causes.
Unattended brush and camp fires are likely to escape. Fires spread rapidly and
short‐distance spotting is common. Fires may become serious and their control
difficult unless they are attacked successfully while small. Outdoor burning should
be restricted to early morning and late evening hours.
Very High Danger
Fires start easily from all causes and immediately after ignition, spread rapidly and
increase quickly in intensity. Spot fires are a constant danger. Fires burning in light
fuels may quickly develop high intensity characteristics such as long distance
spotting and fire whirlwinds when they burn in heavier fuels. Both suppression and
mop‐up will require an extended and very thorough effort. Outdoor burning is not
recommended. Fire restrictions may be in effect at this level.
Extreme Danger
Fires 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 very high fire danger class. Every fire start has the
potential to become large. Expect extreme, erratic behavior. NO OUTDOOR
BURNING SHOULD TAKE PLACE IN AREAS WITH EXTREME
FIRE BEHAVIOR. Fire restrictions are generally in effect at this level.
Red Flag Warning
Is a short term, temporary warning indicating the presence of dangerous
combinations of temperature, wind, relative humidity, fuel or drought conditions
which can contribute to new fires or rapid spread of existing fires. A “Red Flag
Warning” can be issued at any of the above Fire Danger levels.