8. Managing Hazard

Question 1

Preparation

Answer 1

Community preparedness in form of early detection and suppression. Many countries have rural firefighting teams.
Community education programmes which assist people developing own fire survival strategies

Knowing when to evacuate and which evacuation routes are best

Individuals can establish firebreaks around their property. EG, trimming beaches and maintaining clean roof, keeping lawns short and watered

Question 2

Preparation 2

Answer 2

Early fire detection is crucial. Satellites and infrared sensors detect thermal variation and cameras to detect ignition of fires

USA: National Weather issues warnings to alert fire departments and residents of critical weather conditions
‘Fire Weather Watch’ to areas at risk within 48 hours and ‘Red Flag Warning’ when conditions are extreme

Question 3

Mitigation

Answer 3

Vegetation ahead of the fire front is deliberately burned, if the fuel is removed before. fire gets there, there is nothing to burn

Natural barriers such as rivers are effective at reducing impacts

Building codes on structures: Considering site layout, installing fire-resistant roofing material, stone driveways to act as a barrier, installing sprinkler systems

Question 4

Mitigation 2

Answer 4

Disaster aid: Immediate humanitarian relief in form of search and rescue, supplying food and water
Longer term reconstructional aid to replace major community facilities

Insurance: Wildfire prone areas encouraged to take out insurance against damage and follow certain fire-safe building codes. Creates huge gaps between rich and poor

Question 5

Prevention

Answer 5

During times of high fire risk, warnings are released and fire bans introduced

Strict enforcement of rules on campfires and barbecues often during high risk
‘Smokey Bear’ has urged Americans to act responsibly and 96% recognise his message of fire safety

Question 6

Adaptation

Answer 6

If areas accept threat of wildfires, buildings need to be cheap made of natural products so of they burn it won’t contribute to pollution

Wildfires are crucial to natural regenerative processes within forest ecosystems. Sometimes are left to burn