What are wildfires?
Wildfires are big fires that happen in nature, like in forests or grasslands. They can start when people leave campfires burning, burn trash, or from natural events like lightning. Sometimes, no one knows how the fire started!
Wildfires happen more often in dry weather, like during a drought. Strong winds can make them spread faster and cause a lot of damage to homes, crops, and roads. They can also hurt animals, people, and nature.
When wildfires burn, they send harmful gases like carbon dioxide into the air. This can make it hard to breathe, and sometimes it can cause heart problems for people nearby.
Wildfire affects Los Angeles.
Recently, two wildfires happened in Los Angeles, California, USA. They burned through areas called Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon. The fires destroyed homes and forced many people to leave.
In Los Angeles, the fires spread quickly because of strong winds and dry weather. Over 30,000 people had to leave their homes to stay safe. Experts said the fires were made worse by dry grass and plants, and winds called Santa Ana winds.
What to do during a wildfire?
If a wildfire happens near you, here’s how you can stay safe:
- Stay Updated: Listen to the news or check alerts to know where the fire is and if you need to leave.
- Be Ready to Leave: Keep a small bag with food, water, medicine, and important papers. Be ready to leave quickly if you need to.
- Protect Yourself from Smoke: If there’s smoke, cover your mouth with a cloth or mask. Stay low to the ground where the air is cleaner.
- Avoid Dangerous Roads: Don’t drive through areas with a lot of smoke or falling things.
- Stay Inside if You Can’t Leave: If you can’t go outside, close all the windows and doors. Call for help if you need it.
By staying safe and prepared, you can protect yourself during a wildfire!
