What are fires that burn outside of the perimeter of the fire called?

Fires that burn outside of the perimeter of an established fire are referred to as spot fires. These occur when embers or other burning materials are carried by wind or other means to ignite new fires in areas that are not directly connected to the main fire. Spot fires can be particularly dangerous as they can lead to the rapid spread of a wildfire, creating additional challenges for firefighting efforts.

This term specifically highlights the way these new fires originate from an existing fire and can pose immediate risks to nearby structures or landscapes. Understanding the behavior of spot fires is crucial for fire management and containment strategies, as addressing them quickly can help prevent a larger escalation of the fire incident.

In contrast, the other types of fires mentioned involve different characteristics and behaviors. Surface fires typically burn along the ground and may not extend beyond the fire's main perimeter, while backfires are intentionally set fires lit by firefighters to create a barrier or reduce fuel for the main fire. Wildfires is a general term that encompasses uncontrolled fires in wildland areas, but does not specifically define those that occur outside an existing fire's perimeter.