Chandler Burning Index
|
Rating and Color Code |
|
|
<50 (Green) |
Fuels do not ignite readily from small firebrands although a more intense heat source, such as lightning, may start fires in duff or punky wood. Fires in open cured grasslands may burn freely a few hours after rain, but woods fires spread slowly by creeping or smoldering, and burn in irregular fingers. There is little danger of spotting. |
|
50-75 (Blue) |
Fires can start from most accidental causes but, with the exception
of
lightning fires in some areas, the number of starts is generally
low.
Fires in open cured grasslands will burn briskly and spread rapidly
on
windy days. Timber fires spread slowly to moderately fast. The
average
fire is of moderate intensity, although heavy concentrations
of fuel,
especially draped fuel, may burn hot. Short-distance spotting may
occur, but
is not persistent. Fires are not likely to become serious and
control is
relatively easy. |
|
High (H) |
All fine dead fuels ignite readily and fires start easily from most
causes.
Unattended brush and campfires are likely to escape. Fires
spread
rapidly and short-distance spotting is common. High-intensity
burning
may develop on slopes or in concentrations of fine fuels. Fires
may
become serious and their control difficult unless they are
attacked
successfully while small. |
|
90-98 (Orange) |
Fires start easily from all causes and, immediately after ignition,
spread
rapidly and increase quickly in intensity. Spot fires are a
constant
danger. Fires burning in light fuels may quickly develop high
intensity
characteristics such as long-distance spotting and fire whirlwinds
when
they burn into heavier fuels. |
|
98+ (Red) |
Fires start quickly, spread furiously, and burn intensely. All fires
are potentially serious. Development into high intensity burning will usually be faster and occur from smaller fires than in the very high fire danger class. Direct attack is rarely possible and may be dangerous except immediately after ignition. Fires that develop headway in heavy slash or in conifer stands may be unmanageable while the extreme burning condition lasts. Under these conditions the only effective and safe control action is on the flanks until the weather changes or the fuel supply lessens. |