Ohio Volunteer Firefighter Practice Exam 2025 - Free Volunteer Firefighter Practice Questions and Study Guide

Spot fires, which occur when embers from an existing fire ignite new fires in unburned areas, are a significant concern during wildland fires. Ember ignition happens when hot embers are carried away from the main fire by wind. These embers can land on dry vegetation or other combustible materials, creating new fire starts—often far from the original blaze.

Wind plays a vital role in this process, as it can transport embers over considerable distances, increasing the likelihood of spot fires occurring in previously unburned areas. Understanding ember ignition is crucial for fire management and mitigation efforts, as it highlights the need for proactive measures to protect areas that may be vulnerable to these unpredictable new ignitions. This emphasizes why focusing on ember management and creating defensible space around properties can significantly reduce the risk of spot fires during wildland fire events.