What term is used to describe sparks or embers carried by winds that can cause additional fires?

The term used to describe sparks or embers carried by winds that can cause additional fires is known as "spotting." This phenomenon occurs when burning materials such as embers are lofted into the air by winds, allowing them to land far away from the original fire source. Spotting can result in new fire ignitions, as these embers may land in dry vegetation or other combustible materials.

Understanding spotting is crucial for wildland firefighters as it highlights the importance of monitoring the surrounding area for potential new fire starts, particularly during windy conditions. This knowledge can inform decisions about firefighting tactics and strategies to prevent the spread of the fire beyond its current boundaries.

The other terms refer to different fire behavior characteristics. Crowning involves fire moving through the tops of trees, running describes rapid fire spread, usually under favorable environmental conditions, and blowup refers to a sudden and intense increase in fire behavior, often due to changes in weather or fuel conditions. While all these terms are relevant in the context of wildland firefighting, spotting specifically addresses the risk of new ignitions from airborne embers.