The wildfire problem – a path forward
| Authors: | Sara S. McAllister |
| Year: | 2026 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Rocky Mountain Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.firesaf.2026.104744 |
| Source: | Fire Safety Journal |
Abstract
Wildfires continue to grab headlines around the world. To find a path forward, we must first define what is meant by “the wildfire problem.” This entails understanding our history with wildland fires and appreciating the needs of our communities as well as our ecosystems. A brief review of our current available tools and how they are used by fire managers will be provided. This will help us gain insight as to how the fire safety engineering community can help to address the weaknesses in our current approach and as well as fill the gaps in our fundamental understanding of wildland fire behavior. The ultimate goal is to realize that wildland fires don't have to be disasters.