The U.S. Forest Service, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Ad Council have come together to launch a new public service advertising campaign that urges communities to prepare for the threat of wildfire.

"This campaign will help individual homeowners and communities safeguard their homes from wildfire threats," said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell.

Nearly 70,000 communities nationwide are at-risk from wildfire, according to data from the National Association of State Foresters. Since crops can be one of the most easily spread sites of wildfires, farm owners are encouraged to invest in adequate Virginia crop insurance.

Wildfires can cost government, businesses and individuals billions of dollars each year in suppression costs and damage to homes, infrastructure, the economy and other resources, the agency added.

Being proactive is one of the best ways communities can overcome damages caused by wildfires, including being aware of best practices, fire safety, having an evacuation plan, proper insurance coverage and knowledge of programs for recovery post fire.