Wildland Fire Junior Ranger - Natchez Trace Parkway

Do you want to become a junior wildland firefighter? Download the wildland firefighter activity booklet, complete the activities, and print your online badge. Congratulations! If you want to learn more, find parks near you with a junior firefighter program. Explore other NPS junior ranger program activities!

Wildland fires can help certain ecosystems remain healthy and productive. Fires have burned across the earth for millions of years and continue to today. About 10 percent of fires occur naturally with the help of lightning and lava, but people start about 90 percent of wildland fires, most often accidentally. Lightning strikes the earth about 100 times each second with temperatures that can sometimes reach more than 50,000℉ (28,000℃).

NPS shares interesting facts about wildland fire and fire ecology for kids. Topics introduced include chinook winds, which can quickly spread fires; the power of the sun in heating fuels; how lightning works; how prescribed fires are conducted safely; Native Americans’ ancient use of fire for hunting; and the necessity of fire to the reproduction of some plant species.

It's important to enjoy the outdoors safely during fire season. Read about how you can stay safe on public lands during fire season.

Cartoon Public Service Announcement about toilet paper burning.

Faces of Aviation, Grand Teton National Park Short-Haul Program

There are many different specializations in the National Park Service Wildland Fire Management Program, some of which require special skills and training, and all of which require enthusiasm and dedication. This is a competitive arena which places physical and mental demands on employees. Come join us!

Wildland fire engines can be large or small depending on the operational needs. They are used to support wildfire response efforts as well as prescribed fire operations.

Some ecosystems have adapted over time to wildland fire. How does wildland fire interact with different forests, woodlands, and grasslands?