Chapter 3
Protection from Fire

3.2 Fire prevention

Most fires in Imperata are set by people. Motivating and involving people is the real solution to preventing wildfire. It is important to understand the different reasons why people set fires, and to dialog with the community about those reasons and how to handle them.

3.2.1 Sources of fire

If groups within the community are opposed to a land use project, arson maybe used in opposition. In this case, the project's social aspects should be carefully reviewed, especially land and crop tenure and the fair distribution of benefits to the members of the community (Chapter 1).

People also set fires to stimulate new grass shoots in grazing areas, to rejuvenate grassy areas to gather thatch, or to manage hunting grounds. Review the community plan (Section 1.3.3) see if some high-risk grasslands are a priority for rehabilitation. Where Imperata areas are to be maintained as grasslands, encourage the community to cooperate to establish fuelbreaks around them.

Farmers often burn their plots to clear away vegetation, to provide a source of crop nutrients from the ash, or to control pests and diseases. However, fire burns away nitrogen and organic matter that would otherwise enrich the soil. Encourage farmers to use farming systems that reduce the need for fire. Always encourage the community to develop rules and enforcement to prevent farmers' fires from becoming sources of wildfire.

There may also be accidents and some individuals who deliberately cause fires for fun. Education and holding people accountable to the community for fire damage will reduce the risk from accidents and arson. But there will always be some risk. Therefore, fuelbreaks and fuel reduction will always be necessary.

3.2.2 Community regulation of fire

Many traditional communities have practices and enforcement customs that have been effective for many years. They maintain a balance between agricultural needs and the forest environment. Discuss with community leaders the existing rules about fire or traditional customs that can be revived and enforced. The goal is to keep people's controlled ("prescribed") burning from becoming a source of wildfires.

Requirements for prescribed burning of farming plots or grazing areas may include:

1. Permits from community leaders who have authority and experience with controlling fire.

2. Permits from local government offices under local or national laws.

3. Choosing a day that is not hot or windy.

4. Choosing a time of day that is not hot or windy (early morning, late afternoon).

5. Respecting "fire-free periods" when the weather or nearby forests are too dry to allow burning.

6. Notifying adjacent landowners in advance.

7. Gathering a crew of people to help.

8. Clearing a fuelbreak around the perimeter.

9. Burning from top to bottom of the slope, to slow the spread of the fire and make it easier to control.

10. Penalties for violation of the guidelines, and compensation for damage caused by escaped fires.

It is very important to enforce requirements and apply penalties in a consistent manner.