# AI advises running uphill to escape a wildfire because fire moves downhill

- **ID:** `disaster/wildfire-run-uphill-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 93%

## Root Cause

Wildfires spread faster uphill due to preheating of fuels and convection; running uphill can trap you against the fire front or in a chimney effect.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| NIFC Fire Safety 2023 | active | — | — |
| CAL FIRE Evacuation Guide 2.0 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Move perpendicular to the fire's path (sideways) to a cleared area, road, or body of water; never run uphill directly away.** (90% success)
   ```
   Move perpendicular to the fire's path (sideways) to a cleared area, road, or body of water; never run uphill directly away.
   ```
2. **If trapped, find a depression or area with minimal vegetation, cover yourself with a fire-resistant blanket, and call 911.** (75% success)
   ```
   If trapped, find a depression or area with minimal vegetation, cover yourself with a fire-resistant blanket, and call 911.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Assuming that fire only moves downhill; fire can move uphill at up to 14 mph, faster than a human can run. (95% fail)
- **** — Running uphill into a canyon or ridge can funnel fire into a chimney effect, intensifying heat. (85% fail)
- **** — Choosing a route through dense vegetation; this provides more fuel and slows escape. (80% fail)