I envision a future where we don't open the curtains to see a smokey sky and open the news to see yet another wildfire unexpectedly ravaging the lands. Clean air shouldn't be a privilege, but it is in this world, and if we have it, we shouldn't let it go.
Wildfires are a natural part of forest ecosystems and serve an important role. However, they have been increasing in frequency and severity, likely due to the drier and hotter climate. We have played a role in this, but maybe we can play a role in the solution too. It's important not to demonize fires, but instead figure out how to protect people and reduce wildfire frequencies/severity.
While we may not be able to immediately alter the drier, hotter climates around the world, we could urge those in power to partake in research to determine how to contain fires. We could also form an app or notification service so that people can promptly shut their doors and stay inside when there's a fire, or evacuate ahead of time, or take other measures to protect their homes. Supplying more knowledge on what could be done during a fire to protect oneself, e.g., via community centres or events, could also help people during fires. Increased medical facilities available or a hotline for support for less emergent medical conditions related to the smoke could also help, as hospitals often get overwhelmed with smoke related health issues. Controlled burning can also help reduce these massive wildfires, as well, providing a more direct solution. There are many things we can do, but I feel like the problem is a lack of attention (once fires stop), and thus a lack of preparedness for when fires return or persist. Thus, education of the community and campaigns will be a great start for tackling this issue.
I like what you're saying here Vani. I think education around a subject is really powerful and starting to shift people's mindsets about fire would be a really good step. Still on the idea of knowledge, if we can't prevent the fires then I love your idea about an app so people can have rapid access to the fact that a fire is in their area and that they should act accordingly.
I really agree with your points. I think collectively there has been a really big effort to label all fires as bad which is understandable. But we need to make people aware that it is a natural part of the environment and that we need to use the information that we have and use it to better suit our needs.
I agree with your point on avoiding demonization of fires. I think it is important to accept fire as an integrated part of the ecosystem and thus try to "coexist (however absurd that may seem)." Your ideas on trying to minimalize the impact of fire seems really detailed, and I definitely agree on increasing the attention given to wild fire before it become an immediate danger.