Fire Weather/Fire Prevention Awareness Week Day 2

In conjunction with federal and state land
management agencies, the National
Weather Service in Jackson, Kentucky
is participating in the Fire Prevention
Awareness Week from October 5th through
the 11th. During the week, different topics
concerning fire weather and fire prevention
will be discussed, which will educate
and increase the awareness of fire weather
and fire safety. 

Fire Weather/Fire Prevention Awareness Week
continues today with a look at how weather
conditions affect fire behavior.

Weather is one of the most significant factors in determining the
spread rate and intensity of fires. Two of the most important
weather parameters are wind speed and relative humidity. In
general, the higher the wind speed and lower the relative
humidity, the greater the potential and intensity of fires.
Windy conditions will help in spreading a fire, while lower humidities
will quickly dry out vegetation, making wildfires easier to ignite
and harder to contain.
Forecasting changes in wind direction are also very important to
fighting wildfires. A change in wind direction will make the fire
spread in a different direction, which could place life and
property in harm’s way. Precipitation amounts and duration are very
important in determining the day’s fire potential. Moisture in the
form of rain or snow makes vegetation much less likely to ignite and
burn, while making the control of wildfires easier.
Residents whose homes are in forested areas, or those who plan on
visiting forests, should keep abreast of the latest forecast
from your national weather service. Keep in touch with state
and federal land management agencies and county officials about
possible burn restrictions and preparedness actions, especially during
prolonged dry conditions. To obtain firewise and burning restriction
information, go to or
or contact Your local Kentucky Division of Forestry district office or your
county Judge Executive’s office.
Children can also play a major role in preventing fires by
Remembering the following safety tips:
1. Never play with matches, lighters, flammable liquids or any
2. Tell your friends about fire prevention.
3. Tell an adult right away if you see smoke, find matches,
   or see someone playing with matches.
4. Stay calm during an emergency and listen to instructions from an
   adult. Remember, Smokey bear needs your help to spread the
   word that, only you can prevent forest fires.
The next topic for Wednesday will be drought and its effects on
For additional fire weather information, please
visit the following website:
