Wildfires

A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire in an area of combustible vegetation that

occurs in the countryside or a wilderness area.

Where do wildfires occur?

• These violent infernos occur around the world and in most of the 50 states, but they are most common in the U.S. West, where heat, drought, and frequent thunderstorms create perfect wildfire conditions. Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and California experience some of the worst conflagrations in the U.S. In California wildfires are often made worse by the hot, dry Santa Ana winds, which can carry a spark for miles.

Following a disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) arranges for the following forms of assistance with victims' personal property:

•Removal of debris

•Storage and transport of personal property, including assistance with expenses

•Takes responsibility for property damage, handling the repair and rebuilding of infrastructure such as bridges and sewer pipes

FEMA