Fire
The San Bernardino National Forest is historically one of the most wildfire prone forests in the country. The area’s arid climate, highly flammable vegetation, steep slopes, and seasonal Santa Ana winds can enhance fires sparked by lightning, careless behavior, accidents, or the deliberate actions of humans.
Year-round we work to reduce the risks severe wildfires pose to people, communities, firefighter safety and the environment through programs aimed at prevention, preparedness and fuels reduction. Our firefighting staff is one of the largest federal firefighting forces in the country and we value our strong partnerships with our local, state, and federal fire partners.
Our combined efforts are important to the long-term health of the land with its unique biological and water resources. We encourage all citizens to better understand this precious natural environment and how to protect it and keep ourselves safe.
The world of fire suppression is changing. Fire seasons are longer and fire behavior often more extreme. The primary reasons for these changes are weather, wood (abundance of fuels) and the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) (structures and communities adjacent and within the forest boundary).
Elements of a Prescribed Burn
- Learn more about prescribed fires
- Airnow Air QualitySmoke and Air Quality
Did you know that there are steps you can take to prepare for smoke, just as you would for a fire? Trace smoke to its sources and learn more about air quality advisories near you.
Traveling in a burned area
A burned landscape presents a number of safety hazards that either did not exist prior to the fire or have been exacerbated by the effects of the fire.
Fire Hire
A highly skilled, hardworking cast of thousands is needed to battle wildland fires. The Pacific Southwest Region Fire and Aviation Management program requires talented people working safely together to be successful.
Fire Danger Ratings
The local Fire Danger Rating can vary in different areas of the forest.
Fire usage and other restrictions are based on a Forest Average Fire Danger Rating and take into account current and antecedent weather, fuel types, and both live and dead fuel moisture.