Peat, a spongy material formed by the partial decomposition of plants, is found in wetlands like swamps, bogs, and moors. Peat can develop all over the world, and though it favors warm and moist environments, peat can develop even in cold regions like Siberia, Canada, and Scandinavia. The waterlogged nature of these environments prevents decomposition, and a low or acidic pH in this soil prevents bacteria from decomposing material, making peatlands a storehouse for much of the world's carbon. The danger of peat fires is much higher than previously due to temperature changes from global warming but also because of wetlands being drained or overgrazed by livestock.

Because of the material they burn, peat fires produce a smoke that is a mixture of toxic, asphyxiant and irritant gasses, making them extremely dangerous to humans and animals. Sometimes called deep seated fires, lagging fires, fireflood, or underground gasification, peat fires are self sustaining and can last much longer than fires that rely on oxygen for combustion.

Thank you to Guillermo Rein, professor of Fire Science at Imperial College London, who provided invaluable expert insight for this lesson.

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