Firefighter 1C Wildland Practice Exam

What is the source of almost all naturally caused wildland and ground fires?

1. Improperly disposed cigarettes

2. Sunlight

3. Lightning

4. Unattended camp fires

The correct answer is: Lightning

Lightning is the primary natural cause of wildland and ground fires, accounting for a significant proportion of wildfires across various ecosystems. When lightning strikes dry vegetation, it can generate enough heat to ignite the materials, especially during thunderstorm conditions when humidity is low and the atmosphere is charged with energy. This phenomenon is particularly common in regions prone to thunderstorms, where forests and grasslands can easily catch fire from a single bolt. Other causes, such as improperly disposed cigarettes, sunlight, and unattended campfires, are primarily linked to human activities rather than natural occurrences. While sunlight can contribute to fire risk through its ability to dry out vegetation and create conditions conducive to burning, it is not a direct ignition source like lightning. Unattended campfires and improperly disposed cigarettes are examples of how human negligence can lead to wildfires, but they do not fall under the category of naturally caused incidents. Thus, lightning stands out as the primary natural source of wildland and ground fires.