|
|
- Info
The defensible space factor study: a survey instrument for post-fire structure loss analysis.
| Author: |
Foote, Ethan I.D.; Martin, Robert E.; Gilless, Keith Gilless |
| Date: |
1991 |
| Periodical: |
In: Proceedings of the 11th Conference on Fire and Forest Meteorology; 1991 April 16-19; Missoula, Montana |
| Abstract: |
Structural losses in wildland fires may be expected with further development in the urban-wildland interface. These losses can, however, be minimized by efforts on the part of homeowners and builders to reduce structural vulnerability. The Defensible Space Factor Study, initiated by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection in 1989, collects information on wildland fires where structures have been lost or threatened. The goal of the study is to support statistical and, analytical research efforts to characterize structure ignition mechanisms and identify effective hazard mitigation measures.. Preliminary examination of data collected for the study has highlighted differences in data collection needs for fire incident reporting and more extensive investigations for research analysis. The focus of the survey instrument is on factors previously identified to be associated with structure damage: fire intensity, vegetation clearance, roof type, and defensive actions. A notable application of the Defensible Space Factor Study was its modified use on the Santa Barbara "Paint" Fire in June 1990. An extensive data collection effort, hosted by the Santa. Barbara County Fire Department, was directed at the 902 major buildings destroyed or threatened by the fire. Observations and preliminary tabulations on the fire are generally consistent with the findings of previous urban-wildland interface structure loss studies. Some surprising results, however, indicate that valuable new information can be obtained from the remains of devastating fires if thorough and systematic post-fire data collection is performed on both damaged and threatened, but undamaged structures. |
|
