Learn | Del Mar Fire Safe

9.3% — Arson

Arson is the deliberate setting of a fire to cause damage. Report suspicious activity to authorities, and call 911 immediately if you see an active fire.

About Wildfire Investigations

22.2% — Other Recorded Causes

This group includes fireworks, firearms and explosives, spontaneous combustion, and other recorded ignition sources.

Fireworks Safety

Target Shooting Safety

12% — Natural Causes

Lightning and other natural events can ignite vegetation and start wildfires. We cannot prevent lightning, but reducing fuel around homes and preparing for evacuation can reduce risk.

How Lightning Starts Fires

Did You Know That Most Wildfires Are Caused By Human Activity?

Source: CAL FIRE, 2025 Wildfire Activity Statistics, Tables 8–10.

Based on 3,693 CAL FIRE State Responsibility Area fires. Categories combined for readability; percentages rounded.

View the official CAL FIRE 2025 report

18.3% — Burning & Fire Activities**

Debris burning, outdoor fires, cigarettes, and misuse of fire can ignite nearby vegetation. Follow local restrictions, supervise outdoor flames, and fully extinguish fires and smoking materials.

**Combines debris/open burning, recreation/ceremony, smoking, and misuse of fire by minors.

CAL FIRE Campfire Safety

11% — Cause Undetermined

The cause of these fires was not established in the reported data.

Fire can destroy evidence, making it difficult to determine exactly how a wildfire began.

Understanding Wildfire Causes

27.2% — Equipment, Vehicles & Power Systems*

Sparks and heat from tools, vehicles, and electrical systems can ignite vegetation. Maintain equipment, secure trailer chains, and keep hot exhaust systems away from dry grass.

* Includes railroad operations.

CAL FIRE Equipment & Vehicle Use