We get frequent shooting bans on BLM and state trust land in AZ due to fire hazards. But I don't think they're very effective. Every place where those bans are in effect is still subject to lightning strikes and anyone can shoot on their own property, which can just easily catch fire and also border land with shooting bans. While driving in Denver last week, I heard on the radio that one of the fires was started by a car that had a tire blowout and the bare rim caused sparks that crossed the road. I don't think there's any way to really eliminate the sources of ignition, just the ease with which the fires spread due to overgrown areas.

that is a good point about ignition events

but this thread really relates to what happens AFTER there is an ignition event

- if the forest has been clearcut, it regrows with lots of small trees ===> big fire

- if winter temperatures are warm, then pine beetles are not killed and spread while killing or stressing trees ===> big fire

- if warmer temperatures exist, then trees are stressed ===> big fire

-- if drought, then trees are stressed or die ===> big fire

* if people build (as many did here - see the 1st post) in forested areas ===> big fire causes lots of destroyed houses

* if the houses are wood, not stucco or brick; have uncleared areas near them; have wood pile near them; have a nice wooden deck ===> any fire causes lots of destroyed houses

all these factors interact - warmer temperatures help the beetles while at the same time stressing the trees so they cannot resist the beetles as well