Forest is Burning: What to Do if You See a Forest Fire?

Forest is Burning
What to Do if You See a Forest Fire?

A major fire was reported at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa this week

Come summer, come forest fires. Whether man-made or natural, forest fires are very dangerous for both ecosystem and humans.

Do you know how to act in the event of a forest fire? We bring you some Dos and Don'ts!

Many of us live near hills and forests. It is very important to know what to do and how to behave during a forest fire and whom to contact in an emergency in your area.

Prevention and Preparation

If you live near a forest, find out whom to contact in your local fire authority and forest department. Inform them immediately if you see a fire.

Also keep a fire extinguisher, sand and water ready during dry season.

Educate yourself and people in your household about emergency and evacuation plans for your area and teach the principles of 'stop, drop and roll' if clothes catch fire.

Check weather updates on this app regularly to stay informed about heat waves and droughts.

What to DO do during a fire in your area

Evacuate immediately if asked by authorities. However, if you have time before leaving shut all the doors and windows, sprinkle water around your house and remove any inflammable items like kerosene lamp, fuel, LPG cylinder, etc.

Take your emergency kit incl. a flashlight with batteries, mobile phone and a water bottle with you before leaving.

If fire is raging outside it may get difficult to breathe, so wet a cloth and keep to your nose and mouth and breathe through the cloth. Inhale lower to the ground

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What NOT to do in forest areas

Never leave a fire unextinguished even if you think it is safe

Never throw cigarettes or matches or leave any fuel material

Do not start a fire during windy conditions

These are just a few brief tips for behavior during forest fires. Please contact your local forest department to get full information most suitable to your area.

Weather & Radar editorial desk