Ladder Fuels Fuel is any living or dead material that will burn. Fine leafy or woody debris ignites easily and acts as kindling. Fuel that allows fire to spread upward from the ground to shrubs to low branches and finally to tree crowns is called ladder fuel. Removing the steps of this fuel ladder will make your property safer in the event of a wildfire. Information on Firewise including free home assessments is available from Cheryl Walimaa, Cook County FireWise at 387-3642.