Using the Website

Getting Started

To use the Be Wildfire Aware website, begin by selecting a Fire Danger Rating Area (FDRA). If you are uncertain about your FDRA, you may utilize the map feature to identify the appropriate area. For users who already know their location, the Dispatch Areas tab in the upper right provides access to a drop-down menu where you can select your dispatch area/FDRA.

Page Structure

Each page follows a consistent organizational structure, starting at the top by indicating the relevant federal dispatch center and the associated fire danger rating area. The current forecasted fire danger for that day is prominently displayed, along with a hyperlink directing you to the most up-to-date fire restrictions available online. Additionally, a pocket card generated by the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) is provided, which typically tracks the ERC and occasionally displays other NFDRS indices. This pocket card is converted into a percentage, showing the ERC value for each day. The red line illustrates the maximum ERC for the day; the gray line represents the 90th percentile for the year, indicating very dry conditions when exceeded; the dark blue line shows observed ERCs for the year, and the light blue line forecasts ERCs for the upcoming seven days.

Indicators

Further on the webpage, nine indicators are presented—ERC %, BI %, Maximum Temperature, Minimum Relative Humidity, Wind Speed, Wind Direction, 24-hour rainfall total, Maximum Relative Humidity, and 1000-hour fuels expected for the day. These figures represent forecasts based on averages from weather stations within the FDRA. A full list of these stations is available at the bottom of the page.

Thresholds and Watch Outs

Local thresholds for each indicator are also shown, highlighting the cell when thresholds are met. When three or more thresholds are met, this is considered a "watch out" situation. The site continues with predicted seven-day forecasts for all indicators, beginning with the adjective fire danger level and followed by ERC %, BI %, Maximum Temperature, Maximum Relative Humidity, Wind Speed, Wind Direction, 24-hour precipitation, 1000-hour fuels, and Maximum Relative Humidity. This allows users to visually assess fire danger expectations over the next week.

ERC and BI Values

The final two lines display actual ERC and BI numbers prior to conversion into percentages; users should exercise caution interpreting these values, as limits vary between FDRAs.

Fires to Remember

Lastly, the site includes a section called "Fires to Remember," listing notable fires along with the corresponding indicators at the time of ignition or substantial growth. This comprehensive approach ensures users understand how to navigate and interpret FDRA pages on the Be Wildfire Aware website.