The United States suffered one of its worst wildfire seasons this summer. The year 2000 could be a near-record year for serious forest fires worldwide.

Greece lost more than 180,000 acres of forest to fires during only a few weeks. Indonesia and Sumatra are two hot spots among several others around the world. Fears are that further droughts will produce what has been called "a global bonfire" perhaps within 18 months.

World leaders are being urged to set aside more money for fire prevention rather than just fighting the flames. (Source: The Daily Express.)