Wildland Firefighting Practice Exam

The threshold of 30 percent moisture is often recognized as a critical point for increased wildfire risk. This percentage refers to the moisture content in the fine fuels (such as grasses, leaves, and small twigs) that can ignite easily. When the moisture content drops to around 30 percent or below, these fine fuels become significantly more flammable, increasing the chances of wildfire ignition and spreading.

At this moisture level, the natural ability of these fuels to resist ignition is reduced and the fire can spread more rapidly and intensely. Additionally, this threshold is utilized by fire management agencies to assess fire danger ratings and to make informed decisions regarding fire prevention strategies and resource allocation. Maintaining awareness of fuel moisture levels is essential for effectively managing wildfire risks, especially during dry seasons or periods of drought.