Key Terms: Fires in Nature (AQA A Level Geography): Revision Note

Nature and causes of wildfires - key terms

Backburning – A technique where firefighters deliberately ignite small fires ahead of a main wildfire to reduce available fuel and slow the spread.

Climate change – A driver of more frequent and severe wildfires due to rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and increased extreme weather.

Crown fire – A type of wildfire that burns through the canopy (top) layer of vegetation; usually the most intense and destructive.

Fire behaviour – Refers to the characteristics of a fire, such as intensity, speed of spread, flame height, and ability to create its own weather systems.

Fuel characteristics – The type and quantity of vegetation available to burn; dry, fine materials like grasses and twigs ignite and spread fire quickly.

Ground fire – A slow-moving fire that burns beneath the surface, often smouldering through roots or peat for long periods without visible flames.

Human causes – Includes arson, discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires, sparks from machinery, and power lines.

Lightning – A natural ignition source for wildfires, especially during dry storms.

Natural causes – Includes lightning, volcanic eruptions, or spontaneous combustion from heat and dryness.

Surface fire – The most common type of wildfire, burning low-lying vegetation such as grasses and shrubs.

Vegetation type – Dense forests and oily plants (e.g. eucalyptus) burn more intensely than open grasslands or moorlands.

Weather conditions – Hot temperatures, low humidity, strong winds, and drought increase wildfire risk.

Impacts and responses to wildfires - key terms

Adaptation – Includes changes in construction (e.g. fire-resistant materials), land use, and personal behaviour to reduce vulnerability.

Air pollution – Smoke and ash can reduce air quality, leading to respiratory illness and even fatalities from inhalation.

Air quality monitoring – Used to issue public health warnings during and after fires.

Biodiversity loss – Fires destroy habitats, ecosystems, and food chains, resulting in displacement or death of wildlife.

Building regulations – Fire-prone areas may require homes to be built with fire-resistant materials and sprinkler systems.

Carbon emissions – Fires release large amounts of carbon dioxide, contributing to the greenhouse effect and climate change.

Controlled burning – Small, managed fires are set intentionally to reduce fuel loads and prevent larger wildfires.

Crop and livestock loss – Agriculture suffers due to burned farmland and animal fatalities, resulting in food shortages and economic losses.

Cultural damage – Important cultural and spiritual sites may be destroyed, impacting heritage and community identity.

Economic disruption – Includes repair costs, loss of tourism, reduced GDP growth, and increased insurance premiums.

Education campaigns – Aim to teach people how to reduce fire risks (e.g. defensible spaces, safe storage of combustibles).

Emergency aid – Provision of short-term support such as food, shelter, water, and medical care after a wildfire.

Ecosystem damage – Fires can destroy plant life, deplete soil nutrients, and increase the risk of erosion and flooding.

Evacuation plans – Organised movement of residents from at-risk areas to minimise injury and loss of life.

Firebreaks – Gaps in vegetation created to stop or slow the spread of wildfires.

Firefighting – Includes ground crews, helicopters, and planes dropping water or fire retardants on active fires.

Health impacts – Includes respiratory illness, heat stress, and trauma from exposure to fire and smoke.

Homelessness – People are displaced as homes and infrastructure are destroyed or damaged.

International aid – In large wildfires, countries may provide personnel, equipment, and funding to support recovery.

Land-use zoning – Planning that avoids dense development in high-risk wildfire zones.

Long-term recovery – Involves infrastructure reconstruction, economic support, and environmental restoration.

Monitoring and warning systems – Satellites, infrared sensors, and weather forecasts used to detect and warn of potential fire outbreaks.

Political pressure – Governments may face criticism for slow responses, leading to new policies or forest management reforms.

Public awareness – Encouraging responsible behaviour through media, signs, and local engagement.

Rehabilitation – Efforts to restore damaged ecosystems, support displaced wildlife, and replant forests.

Rescue – Emergency services responding to people trapped or injured during and after the fire.

Search and rescue – Deployed during active fires to locate and assist trapped or injured individuals.

Social disruption – Communities may face service disruptions, relocation, or fatalities.

Soil degradation – Loss of vegetation can lead to erosion, leaching, and long-term declines in soil fertility.