Things aren't always what they seem...

Natural fires; some say they are a curse, but strangely, without them many of the pine forests of the southeast wouldn't have grown. These fires burn away the undergrowth and allow young pines to get a head start. Certain species of pine tree can't even germinate without fires. The cones open after the heat of the fire and drop their seeds unto the newly cleared forest floor, where the nutrient rich soil will have been enhanced with the ashes of the competing undergrowth. 

     It may not seem like it, but most animals that live in and around the pines will be safe from the fire, because they have evolved ways to escape the heat of the blaze. Box turtles bury themselves into the forest floor,  snakes lizards, toads, mice ,and frogs retreat to burrows,  and faster animals simply run or fly to escape the fire. Also, their food supply will regrow quickly.   Within a few weeks young pines, palmettos , and other such plants will have put on new growth, just as it has happened for thousands of years. 

This picture is of the Gulf Coast fire currently happening at Orange Beach, Al.  This was started by a careless camper, however it will benefit the forest because it is getting rid of old hurricane debris.  It is inconvenient for beach goers, but it will be ok in the long run.  (It is currently under control.).  Warning:  Never leave your grill or heat source unattended, especially during droughts.