Trees

Bottom line

Trees can ignite in a wildfire when understory vegetation catches fire or if fire reaches the canopy and spreads tree to tree. Limb lower branches and increase separation between trees near structures.

Overview

Trees are most vulnerable to direct flame contact from understory vegetation that catches fire or fire spreading in the canopy between trees. This can carry flames directly to a structure. Limbing branches so the lowest portion is 12 feet off the ground - or at least 1/3 tree height for small trees - or three times higher than the understory vegetation mitigates this risk.