This report describes the adverse effects of forest fires on the human environment; identifies three areas of the world which are highly susceptible to fires (Mediterranean, Central American, and African Savanna regions); and recommends a long—term programme of work aimed at solving some of the most urgent problems. It discusses both the on—site and off—site damages caused by unwanted fires, and it emphasizes that, because of population pressures and other factors, the potential for fire—caused damages is greater than ever before.