Special Reports: Wildfire

Wildfire gallery

Terrifying and destructive as they are, wildfires have an undeniable, compelling beauty.

Pollutants and firefighter hearts

Firefighters may face a heightened risk for heart disease as a result of breathing in extremely fine particles that infiltrate the smallest air passages and lodge in their lungs.

Wildfires foul the air

Air pollution soars during fire season generally, and wildfire smoke represents a serious health risk for nearby populations. Lower your exposure levels with these sensible tips.

How and why people start fires

Less than 10% of wildfires have natural causes; the rest are the fault of human beings. Why would anyone do this?

Smoke inhalation

Smoke inhalation is the leading cause of death related to fires. Follow these steps if you are assisting someone.

What causes wildfires?

There are 18 recognised causes of wildfires, and very few of these are natural.