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Another source of ignition by wildfire is convection. Ignition of a structure by convection requires the flame to come in contact with the structure. Contact with the convection column is generally not hot enough to ignite a structure. Clearing to prevent flame contact with the structure must include any materials capable of producing even small flames. Wind will tilt the flame and the convection column uphill, increasing the chance of igniting a structure. Firebrands also pose a threat to structures in the Wildland/Urban Interface zone. A firebrand is a piece of burning material that detaches from a fire due to strong convection drafts in the burning area. They can be carried a long distance (around 1 mile) by fire drafts and winds. The change of these firebrands igniting a structure depends on the size of the firebrand, how long it burns after contact, and the materials, design and construction of the structure. The Division of Forestry and/or federal fire control personnel protect one-third of Indian River County's total land; however, due to limited state and federal resources, the Indian River County Emergency Services Fire Division responds to most wildfires and is supported by the Florida Division of Forestry. Most wildfires in the county occur in Florida's dry season, from January through May. (1) Muck Fires A muck fire is a fire that consumes all the organic material of the forest floor and also burns into the underlying soil. It differs from a surface fire by being invulnerable to winds. If the fire gets deep into the ground, it could smolder for several years. In a surface fire, the flames are visible and burning is accelerated by wind; whereas, in a muck fire wind is not generally a serious factor (Canadian Soil Information System, 1996). Indian River County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan Basic Page 14