Over the last decade, nearly 63,000 wildfires have occurred each year, burning up to 7.5 million acres of land annually. Wildfires are defined as uncontrolled and unplanned fires that typically originate in forests or grassland. And studies show that the number of wildfires, both nationally and throughout the world, is increasing year over year.

But the most alarming thing about wildfires is that an estimated 85 percent of them are believed to be caused by humans and the various actions they take (or fail to take). Learn a few simple tips that you can follow to help prevent wildfires.

1. Don't Throw Cigarettes on the Ground

This is one of the easiest things you can do to help prevent a wildfire in your community. If you smoke, dispose of cigarettes properly in an ashtray. Cigarettes often carry enough heat to create a spark - and in dry conditions, any spark that ignites could easily cause a fire. Like we said, dispose of any cigarettes properly in an ashtray. And make sure that they are completely extinguished before discarding the ashtray into the garbage.

2. Report Any Unattended Fires You Come Across

If you ever come across an unattended fire, no matter how big or how small, be sure to report it to the authorities so it can be properly extinguished. It does not take long for a small campfire to turn into a big problem if left unattended. Extinguishing it yourself or contacting the authorities to tend to it can help contain the fire sooner and help prevent mass spread.

3. Always Extinguish Campfires, Backyard Fires

To piggyback off the above point, you should never leave a campfire unattended, and you should always extinguish it properly after you are done with it. Douse the flames with water or smother them with ash (or do both) to ensure the fire is not burning after you have left it.

4. Be Prepared

Finally, one thing you can do to prevent wildfires is know when the risk of a fire is highest. In some areas of the United States, the risk of a forest fire is updated daily and posted near wooded areas. Knowing the risk can serve as a valuable reminder to visitors of these wooded areas to take extra caution so as not to engage in any activity that could lead to a wildfire.