Although the events of Wildfire are fictional, they are based on real wildfires in Maine and across North America. In particular, Rodman Philbrick was inspired by the Great Fire of 1947, when smoke covered the skies of all of New England. Forest fires are a natural part of many ecosystems, and in some cases they can even be beneficial. As Philbrick explains in the book’s Afterword, “certain plants […] depend on fire for reproduction and healthy growth” (181). However, fires can also be extremely dangerous and damaging. They spread very fast, threatening the lives of plants, animals, and humans. As climate change creates hotter and drier summers, the risk of severe wildfires increases. Forest-fire season is becoming longer, hotter, and more deadly every year. Philbrick notes that “the vast majority [of forest fires] are caused by humans” (179), though environmental conditions make them harder to control. This is the case in Wildfire: The bikers start the fires, but the hot, dry conditions of Maine during a drought and heatwave make the fire uncontrollable almost immediately.

Managing wildfires is a major and immediate concern in North America today. Philbrick says that “in 2017, wildfires broke out in all fifty states” (179), and each summer, conditions worsen. The book concludes with a list of tips for surviving forest fires. Being prepared to evacuate quickly and having a plan for where to go can make all the difference. Sam and Delphy have mere moments to escape the fires at several points in Wildfire, and the same is often true in real situations. Preventing forest fires in the first place is also crucial. People should review fire safety and current restrictions in their areas, especially prior to summer camping trips. Ensuring that all fires are fully put out and using heat sources that do not emit sparks can help prevent deadly wildfires. It is also important to keep track of air-quality warnings, as spending time outside or exercising heavily in smoky conditions can damage the lungs.