Wildfires Caused by Negligence: Understanding the Human Impact

Wildfires are a growing threat to communities, ecosystems, and public health — especially in regions prone to drought and high winds. While some wildfires start naturally, a staggering percentage are caused by human or corporate negligence. Recognizing how these fires begin, and the lasting damage they cause, is key to prevention and accountability.

Published on: May 22, 2025

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How Human Negligence Sparks Wildfires

Roughly 85% of all wildfires in the United States are caused by human activity, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

Common causes of wildfires include:

Unattended Campfires

Improperly extinguished campfires can easily ignite surrounding brush, especially in dry conditions. In 2020, California alone saw over 1,000 wildfires linked to campfires.

Discarded Cigarettes

Smoldering cigarette butts can start fires in grass, leaves, or debris. A 2019 study found that discarded cigarettes caused nearly 25% of all human-started wildfires in the U.S.

Arson

Deliberately set fires pose a particularly dangerous threat. The FBI estimates that arson causes about 13% of U.S. wildfires. Surveillance and community reporting help fight these crimes.

The Cost of Negligence: Environmental and Human Impact

Environmental Consequences

Carbon emissions: In 2020, U.S. wildfires released over 300 million metric tons of CO₂ — equal to 65 million cars.
Habitat destruction: Fires destroy plant and animal habitats, some of which may never recover.
Air quality: Smoke from wildfires creates widespread respiratory risks.

Community Impact

Property loss: Homes and entire neighborhoods are often lost.
Health effects: Smoke worsens asthma and other conditions, especially for vulnerable groups.
Economic damage: Recovery costs frequently exceed billions annually.

Prevention Through Education and Action

Campaigns like “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” educate people on extinguishing campfires, safe cigarette disposal, and respecting burn bans.

Simultaneously, laws requiring defensible space, stricter penalties, and increased funding for prevention efforts help reduce risk at the source.

The Role of Technology in Fire Prevention

Remote Sensing and Drones

Satellites and drones monitor vast areas for fire risk and provide early warnings.

Predictive Modeling

Data tools forecast wildfire risk using weather, vegetation, and historical patterns to help communities prepare.

Community-Based Fire Prevention

Fire-Resistant Landscaping

Removing brush, using fire-resistant materials, and maintaining defensible space can significantly reduce wildfire risk.

Community Preparedness Plans

Evacuation drills, emergency communication plans, and fire department training sessions boost readiness and reduce confusion during emergencies.

Post-Fire Rehabilitation and Recovery

Programs replant trees, restore soil health, and rebuild wildlife habitats, often with volunteer support. Financial aid, emotional health support, and legal/insurance help are essential after a fire.

Preventing the Preventable

Wildfires caused by negligence are avoidable — and yet they continue to destroy lives, landscapes, and economies. The solution is within our reach, but it requires commitment from individuals, communities, policymakers, and fire safety professionals.

Through education, policy, technology, and collective responsibility, we can reduce the number of human-caused wildfires and protect the people and places we love.

Written by: Fire Help Center