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- Info
Understanding fire behavior
| Author: |
Randall, Cotton K. |
| Periodical: |
Gainesville, FL: Florida Cooperative Extension Service; Fire in the Wildland-Urban Interface |
| Link: |
/products/fact_sheets/fire-in-the-interface-fact-sheets/understanding-fire-behavior
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| Abstract: |
Wildland fires pose a serious threat to human life and property when homes are built in fire-prone ecosystems (See fact sheet Fire in the Wildland-Urban Inteface: Considering Fire in Florida's Ecosystems). Several factors influence the intensity of wildfires and their potential to damage or destroy structures. Developing a basic understanding of the factors that determine wildfire movement and intensity (collectively called fire behavior) will allow homeowners and builders to assess fire hazard on their property and determine what they can do to minimize their risk. Research has shown that the most important factors influencing building survival during a wildfire are fire intensity, vegetation characteristics, and building materials (especially roofing). Strategies for protecting homes from wildfires have been developed with these factors in mind. This extension fact sheet examines factors that affect fire behavior, strategies to reduce fire risk, and examples of risk reduction activities. |
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