Mountain Wildfires: How to Prevent Them and Our Responsibility as Hikers

Every summer, thousands of hectares of natural spaces are threatened by wildfires—many of them preventable. A small human mistake can have devastating consequences. During this time of year, the risk increases dramatically, and as mountain lovers, we must be the first to act responsibly.

Why Do Wildfires Increase in Summer?

- High temperatures and extreme drought.

- Winds that quickly spread flames.

- More people visiting natural areas.

Common Mistakes That Cause Fires (Even if They Seem Harmless)

- Throwing cigarette butts or matches without fully extinguishing them.

- Cooking or making fires outside designated areas.

- Leaving flammable waste behind (glass, cans, aerosols).

- Parking over dry grass with a hot vehicle.

- Not reporting smoke sightings during a hike.

Best Practices for Hikers to Prevent Fires

- Check the fire risk level before heading out.

- Always bring a bag for your trash (and pick up a bit more if you can).

- Never light a fire, no matter how small.

- Use proper gear: a durable backpack, fire-resistant clothing for long hikes, and technical footwear with good grip to avoid falls or straying off trail.

Technical shoes like Oriocx, designed for all types of terrain, help you stay safe and on marked paths—reducing environmental impact and lowering the risk of fire-causing accidents.

The Power of Example: Teaching Through Action

- Share your responsible hikes on social media.

- Teach kids the basics of outdoor safety.

- Gently correct others you see acting carelessly—without confrontation.

- Value the landscape more than the perfect photo.

What to Do if You See Smoke or a Fire?

- Move away from the fire, downwind and downhill.

- Avoid running toward higher ground.

- Call 112 as soon as possible and clearly describe the location and fire type.

- Mark the area if you can do so safely.

Final Note

Protecting our mountains is not someone else’s job—it’s ours. Every step we take should be responsible. Every decision on the trail should consider those who come after us. Because the greatest act of love for nature is preserving it.