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¹ E.g., Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission (2023, September). ON FIRE: The report of the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission. https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/wfmmc-final-report-09-2023.pdf

² More information about assessment using a Community Wildfire Protection Plan is available at https://www.usfa.fema.gov/wui/communities/assess-risk.html

³ More information about Community Wildfire Defense Program is available at https://www.fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/grants/cwdg

still lack this focus. Lahm suggested that, given the broad spectrum of vulnerable groups in our society, it is crucial to optimize existing tools in order to protect at-risk populations.

Emphasizing how the challenge with forecasting smoke lies in its complexity, Lahm said that predicting near-field behavior, exposure for firefighters, and variability in fire conditions is difficult. Investment in advanced meteorological models is advisable to improve smoke forecasting accuracy.

Another critical issue Lahm addressed was public health, particularly for outdoor workers and firefighters exposed not only to particulate matter but also to a mix of pollutants in hot, dusty, silica-laden environments. The best approach to go about protecting these individuals remains insufficiently understood. He noted that communication poses another challenge because not everyone has the internet or smartphones, which are essential for disseminating vital information like the EPA and USFS’s Fire and Smoke Map.⁴ These challenges, Lahm noted, underscore the need to optimize current tools and systems.

WILDFIRE MONITORING AND RESPONSE: TRANSFORMATION THROUGH INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES

Jessica Block, Associate Director, Operational Programs, WIFIRE Lab

Block works at the WIFIRE Lab which supports the Fire Integrated Real Time Intelligence System (FIRIS).⁵ Initially piloted by Chief Brian Fennessy of the Orange County Fire Authority, FIRIS aims to provide real-time responses to wildfires. The FIRIS program has since grown to become a state-funded initiative under the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).⁶ Block’s role involves using advanced computing and machine learning to supervise and monitor vegetation and classified fires across California. This experience places her at the intersection of academia, technology, firefighting, and government policy.

New technologies are available for wildfire monitoring. Visibility can be challenging in smoky conditions, but one notable technology that can help detect and track smoke plumes is the wildfire monitoring camera from Alert California,⁷ now extensively deployed across the state and under consideration for use nationwide. Figure 10-1 also features the new Next Generation Fire System (NGFS),⁸ which aids in rapid-fire detection and, using an algorithm from observations made by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) satellite observations, is currently in experimental use with NOAA. Block described how, during this specific fire incident, cameras and satellite data pinpointed the fire’s location eight minutes after a 911 call, demonstrating improved response times. Aircraft, facilitated by weather stations and cameras (primarily supported by utility companies in California), provided real-time fire perimeters to ground crews.

Block discussed several ongoing challenges with technology integration and fire response. One is that constantly evolving technology plays a crucial role in detecting fire risks that may otherwise go unnoticed, as illustrated by how thermal imaging reveals fire spots not otherwise evident in the visible spectrum. She underscored the need for robust policies that can swiftly adapt to and evaluate emerging technologies. A remaining challenge in the current regulatory landscape, Block said, is the potential necessity for governments to enhance their agility in evaluating and deploying such innovations.

In contrast to the nimbleness lacking from governments, Block has observed that the tech industry has introduced various tools, some of which are extremely valuable, such as the thermal imaging camera used on aircraft. However, as an example of how challenges can arise, Block pointed to episodes when companies lacking expertise in fire management utilize poor-quality data for machine learning and data integration purposes. She suggested that these types of situations can lead to skepticism among fire departments when they are offered the opportunity to subscribe to expensive, unvetted technologies. Effective implementation of new technologies requires updated

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⁴ More information about the Fire and Smoke Map is available at https://fire.airnow.gov/

⁵ More information about the Fire Integrated Real Time Intelligence System available at https://wifire.ucsd.edu/firis

⁶ More information about California Office of Emergency Services available at https://www.caloes.ca.gov/

⁷ More information about Alert California is available at https://alertcalifornia.org/

⁸ More information about Next Generation Fire System is available at https://cimss.ssec.wisc.edu/ngfs/

government and business policies designed to address issues such as how to manage intellectual property and trade secrets; the need to provide access to reliable data; and how to facilitate scientific transparency.

Despite these challenges, Block noted that the technologies she showcased have not only significantly reduced response times and improved public reporting capabilities, but also have the potential to transform how fire departments and governments operate effectively. Block concluded by saying that enhancing transparency with real-time information may empower communities to make informed decisions and improve trust in government and scientific processes.

SOCIAL RESILIENCE: CHALLENGES AND INNOVATIONS IN WILDFIRE TECHNOLOGY

Haizhong Wang, Professor, Oregon State University

Wang began by recalling a recent trip, accompanied by the local emergency manager and fire and rescue team captain, to Ashland, Oregon, after the 2020 Alameda fire. Given what they saw at the time, they noted the speed at which a fire can move—faster than a bobcat, which can move at a sustained 35 miles per hour—prompting reflection on the urgency of evacuation scenarios and the efforts made to protect lives and homes. Highlighting the critical importance of time and life-protecting safety measures during disasters, Wang compared wildfires with the temporal and spatial impacts of tsunamis. He referenced the Maui fire in 2023 that destroyed the town of Lahaina, which has reinforced the idea that “minutes matter,” and the urgency of decision-making amid uncertainty and compounded disaster scenarios. In the context of that fire, the strong winds of Hurricane Dora caused widespread power outages and disrupted communication networks. Recently, in Maui County there have been lawsuits against cell phone service providers due to failures in delivering life-saving messages during emergencies. Wang suggested that these failures—including being unable to get the strong signals needed to communicate about critical situations—occurred amidst power loss and communication channel challenges.

Wang continued by describing another example from 2018 when Greece experienced the devastating Attica wildfire. In Mati, a coastal community, over 104 lives were lost, spurring Wang to study the community and gather data. The significant challenges Mati faced were due not only to the limited narrow evacuation routes, but also to a large population of seniors and children who frequent the area as a vacation spot. He described how the terrain, characterized by steep cliffs and limited access roads, further exacerbated evacuation efforts, leading to scenes of cars being abandoned and pedestrians fleeing on foot or resorting to jumping into the ocean. Noting parallels to the challenges observed in Maui, where warnings and evacuation efforts often occurred simultaneously, Wang underscored the critical need for improved safety measures and evacuation planning in coastal communities facing similar threats.

Evacuation Planning and Community Safety: Addressing Critical Knowledge Gaps and Research Needs

Wang then moved on to address critical knowledge gaps and research needs. Focusing on the human perspective, he raised the knowledge gap surrounding decision-making when faced with uncertainty, specifically regarding transient populations. He also noted that in his review, existing literature that shapes most evacuation planning and communication strategies focuses predominantly on residents. Wang has observed, however, that there is a significant gap concerning the millions of tourists who visit areas like Ashland. He pointed out that there is a lack of knowledge when it comes to the decision-making processes used by emergency managers and community leaders when issuing evacuation orders and alerts.

With respect to infrastructure, transportation systems play a crucial role as life-protecting safety measures during emergencies; in this context, Wang highlighted the need for enhanced warning and evacuation strategies as part of a larger set of interconnected safety-related dimensions. He discussed the complications observed during the Maui event where warnings, exacerbated by cascading issues such as strong winds, either arrived too late or were absent altogether. This raises the question of what technologies could be introduced in community communica-

tion to ensure the timely dissemination of life-saving messages? Wang said the fact that many bodies were found near their homes underscores the devastatingly short timeframe people had to react. Regarding questions about why individuals did not head to the beach and take refuge in the water, he said time probably did not allow for such actions. He suggested this points to the challenging circumstances faced by people during emergencies. The capacity and effectiveness of evacuation routes and transportation systems are critical considerations, he noted, especially in scenarios where traditional evacuation may not be feasible. Ultimately, ensuring people’s safety is paramount, Wang emphasized, whether through evacuation or other means.

Regarding community protection, another knowledge gap is in the natural dimension. Wang mentioned a suite of tools from the Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory⁹ that could be valuable for informing decisions on community protection, timing, and impact, such as FlamMap.¹⁰ These tools could inform decisions, critical for life safety, concerning how much time is available to protect a community before a fire impacts it.

Regarding research needs, Wang emphasized that because each situation is unique, it is important to establish an interdisciplinary and integrated approach incorporating community and local knowledge into models. Using datasets to drive these models and minimize assumptions is essential, he said, as well taking a bottom-up approach that can factor in community innovations and improve decision-making.

Wang referenced sheltering research for wildfires and how innovations like wildfire bunkers, though costly, show promise. Though practical research on sheltering needs and capacity, particularly for low-income communities, is crucial, he pointed out that funding for such technologies remains a challenge.

Finally, Wang noted that enhancing decision support and scenario analysis tools to monitor evacuation processes using big data and social media offers potential, despite anticipated disruptions. Collaborative efforts, he has observed, could pave the way for effective real-time monitoring of community safety zones during emergencies.

INNOVATIVE APPROACHES AND TECHNOLOGICAL INTEGRATION IN WILDFIRE MANAGEMENT AND PREPAREDNESS

Kelsey Winter, Wildfire Director, FP Innovations

Winter, endeavoring to improve fire management practices, addressed critical knowledge gaps. Researchers using data fusion and analytics have been integrating technology—such as door and security camera footage from the public—with weather and sensor data in order to enhance analytical capabilities. Reflecting on how to combine different expertise to innovate in firefighting, she suggested bringing together an exoskeleton engineer, a computer gamer, a computer scientist, and a wildfire firefighter to brainstorm ways to enhance physical and mental training for firefighters. A collaborative approach of this kind is an example of what could be done to revolutionize how technology is integrated into training.

With regard to another knowledge gap, Winter said there is a need for interoperable communication systems to facilitate seamless information exchange and collaboration. This gap extends beyond operations into prevention and mitigation efforts.

Another knowledge gap Winter shared was related to developing resilient infrastructure and sensor networks within urban environments. These networks and models are designed to withstand wildfire impacts while at the same time providing real-time data for effective response and preparedness. For example, instead of relying on traditional methods like driving past billboards with fire danger ratings in red, Winter described how a person would have an app on their phone connected to their home. This app, integrating weather data, sensors, videos, and other available data, could allow people to see the specific fire risk to their property in real-time. While such technology exists in California, it is not yet implemented in Canada, highlighting a gap that, when closed, could greatly enhance wildfire preparedness and response. Winter posed this question: What if, during an evacuation alert, you could remotely operate an external sprinkler system attached to your home? This could provide added

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⁹ More information about the Missoula Fire Sciences Laboratory is available at https://www.firelab.org/applications

¹⁰ More information about FlamMap, a fire mapping and analysis system, is available at https://www.firelab.org/project/flammap

security, reassuring you that you are taking steps to protect your property while preparing to evacuate. There are numerous ways technology can enhance resilient infrastructure.

Winter highlighted research needs such as emphasizing human-centered design, including the importance of user engagement that involves considering factors—which vary socioeconomically and across generations—such as cultural background and technological literacy. An important consideration in this context is how unequal access to technology could risk widening the gap between those proficient and those not, creating a new form of societal division. Ensuring equitable access and solutions in technology, she said, is crucial for inclusive progress and societal stability.

Another research need she mentioned was interdisciplinary approaches and collaboration between experts with lived and learned knowledge. Lastly, Winter mentioned not only effectiveness and long-term sustainability, but also the need to consider factors like scalability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental impact. Technological solutions are continually adapting to evolving wildfire risks and economic conditions. She has also observed challenges when it comes to aligning short-term political cycles, spanning generations, with long-term forest management goals. Despite quarterly economic reporting requirements, forest stewardship mandates lasting 50 to 100 years necessitate forward-thinking policies and investments. Winter suggested that not only monitoring but also advanced technologies play crucial roles in achieving these long-term sustainability objectives amidst climate change challenges.

DISCUSSION: IMPROVING WILDFIRE DECISION-MAKING BY ENHANCING DATA AND TOOLS

Tamara Wall started the discussion by asking panelists if new tools and data were needed—or if existing resources should be applied in different ways? Block responded that much of the fire data available is of poor quality. From a fire response perspective, she has observed that it is crucial to monitor and effectively respond to wildfires. Understanding the impact of fire on our landscape requires knowledge of all types of fires. Block mentioned that in places like California, only fires larger than 500 acres are reported, leaving many smaller fires undocumented. She suggested that over time this lack of data affects our understanding of fire behavior. For example, she surmised that there have recently been thousands of fires in Kern County, California, that have gone undocumented due to their size.

While California has extensive weather monitoring, Block noted it is not sufficient for fire behavior analysis. In the Fire Integrated Real-time Intelligence System (FIRIS) Fusion Center, they dynamically evaluate all available data streams, assessing in real-time what data are useful for accurately documenting fire behavior. Emphasizing that flexibility is needed in order for experts to use tools, she cited as an example how different entities require and interpret data differently, so streamlining data integration is not recommended. Block emphasized that integration should be allowed for researchers and agencies to use data as they see fit.

Wall asked Block to describe, in this context, what in her professional judgment good data look like. Block stated that she wants detailed information on when and why fires start, noting that a significant number of fires are human-induced—and mostly unintentionally.¹¹ She emphasized the need for information about localized weather conditions during the fire’s occurrence since forecasts often miss high wind gusts in certain areas of California. Additionally, she stressed that every fire known about should be reported.

Currently, some companies that are planning to launch high-resolution fire detection satellites are asking how to quantify the economic benefits of earlier detection? Doing so would require knowing the exact start and response times of fires—but such data are currently unavailable. To obtain this information, one would need to review all dispatch radio records and make educated guesses about fire locations and suppression effects. Unfortunately, though comprehensive reports on every fire do not exist, the tech industry assumes these data are available and accurate—which, Block indicated, is not the case.

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¹¹ Balch, J. K., Bradley, B. A., Abatzoglou, J. T., Nagy, R. C., Fusco, E. J., & Mahood, A. L. (2017). Human-started wildfires expand the fire niche across the United States. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 114(11), 2946–2951.

Continuing the discussion by stating that he works with data frequently, Lahm said he focuses on understanding emissions from wildfires and prescribed fires. In 2020, over 10 million acres were burned in prescribed fires on state, federal, and private land, and he said about half are being remotely sensed without ground validation.¹² He suggested this creates challenges when it comes to the accuracy of data. Some pending regulations may improve this, but many fires are intentional, which is to say meant to help address certain issues—and so may not be tied to response times. He also noted that accurate differentiation of information is important, especially when considering the health impacts of prescribed fires. For example, he noted that fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) might have a 50 percent accuracy range which can be challenging to understand.¹³ Lahm believes this differentiation of information is vital for balancing the effects of catastrophic wildfire smoke. He agrees with Block that meteorological data resolution is essential. High-resolution tools and finer grids for topographic elements are critical for accurate monitoring of fire behavior and smoke dispersion forecasts. Lahm concluded by saying these components need to be integrated in order to create a better platform and common operating picture for addressing these challenges.

Wall followed up by asking Lahm who should take on this role and responsibility—who is best prepared to do so? There is a significant amount of collaboration in this space, Lahm responded, which could pose a challenge as no single entity “owns it.” However, with there being new National Air Quality Standards,¹⁴ documenting prescribed fire activity may become increasingly important. He suggested that required documentation of this kind could show the value of the new standard for fine particulate matter to all who use prescribed fire during the implementation. Lahm has observed that this is a community need, necessitating investment from federal and state agencies and forestry bodies. He emphasized it is important to ensure that all systems are interoperable and communicative. Joint ownership of this data will take time but is essential, he said, to avoid conflicts over data quality.

Wall responded by emphasizing that this issue relates to Block’s point about the diverse use of data. She highlighted the need to balance making data interoperable with avoiding excessive streamlining that might overlook important nuances in different contexts.

Building upon Lahm and Block’s responses, mentioning the need to integrate different kinds of data, Winter pointed out the gap between big data and the human element. For instance, in an effort to help cities defend against wildfire, a group in British Columbia recently announced an AI solution and a suite of software tools.¹⁵ This system will automate Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) and the Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (CWRP) processes by mapping, layering critical infrastructure, and prioritizing treatment units, transforming a static PDF into a dynamic, data-fed entity. She observed that the initial reaction from the scientific and technology communities was skepticism. However, Winter suggested that if technology could be successfully utilized to reduce the six months of planning time that is typically required by partners, it could allow them to focus more on building essential relationships needed to enable the practical implementation of CWPP/CWRP plans. Winter stated that, to make it work effectively, the remaining challenge is bridging the gap between big data and the needed human efforts.

For big data to work effectively, Block said more reliable data are needed. Currently, every fire ignition is reported, but the recorded locations are often inaccurate. An example of this is when someone in a car calls 911 while driving, the fire is recorded as occurring on the freeway instead of its actual location. There are state and federal efforts, in California, to establish an official mechanism to record ignition locations at their actual points. Today, it is impossible to accurately evaluate the risk of vegetation and fire ignition due to this lack of precise data. She believes this policy challenge, associated with updating accurate fire perimeters or locations, is crucial for addressing community hazards, which the tech community cannot solve without these data.

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¹² Melvin, M. A. (2022). 2021 national prescribed fire use report. Coalition of Prescribed Fire Councils and the National Association of State Foresters. https://www.stateforesters.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/2021-National-Rx-Fire-Use-Report_FINAL.pdf

¹³ Jaffe, D. A., O’Neill, S. M., Larkin, N. K., Holder, A. L., Peterson, D. L., Halofsky, J. E., & Rappold, A. G. (2020). Wildfire and prescribed burning impacts on air quality in the United States. Journal of the Air & Waste Management Association, 70(6), 583–615.

¹⁴ More information about National Air Quality Standards is available at https://www.epa.gov/criteria-air-pollutants/naaqs-table

¹⁵ More information on the wildfire AI tool is available at https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/212070/Genesis-Releases-Wildfire-Defence-Solutions-AI-Tool

Referencing Sarah McCaffrey’s point from the workshop’s first day about the necessity of a strong rural economy (see Chapter 7), Wall noted that a workforce is needed to implement solutions effectively—but in many places that workforce just does not exist.

Wang emphasized the importance of ensuring that technologies and tools—for the communities that need them for effective decision-making—are usable, useful, and accessible. He noted that many tools are designed for those with specialized training, making them less accessible to community members. For tasks like evacuation planning or hazard mitigation, Wang advocated for making these tools more user-friendly.

On the data front, Wang discussed the limitations of behavioral data sets in disaster situations. He noted the difficulty social scientists face in collecting data from communities, citing the recent example in Maui where it was challenging to gather responses from tourists. Unable to contact them directly, he had to rely on hotels to send surveys. Wang mentioned, additionally, that given how people become overwhelmed by the number of surveys they receive, survey fatigue can be a factor in reducing participation.

The Potential for Using Technology to Navigate Uncertainty in Wildfire Decision-Making

An audience member asked Wang for examples or ideas regarding how technology could facilitate decision-making under uncertainty for individuals and residents in these areas? Wang referenced a conversation with Glen MacDonald about how modelers and urban planners deal with uncertainty. Wang observed that while we cannot eliminate uncertainties, we can manage and reduce them to some extent. He noted that the challenge in disaster situations, particularly regarding life safety, stems from uncertainties related to human factors, infrastructure, and the disasters themselves.

He explained that some aspects are more predictable than others. For instance, tsunamis can allow for the time needed to predict their arrival from across the ocean, enabling planning for horizontal or vertical shelters. In contrast, wildfires, in terms of their starting points, their spread, and the conditions, are much less predictable.

One approach Wang suggested to address these uncertainties is to empower and engage communities. Community members are often the first responders, so building self-reliance and capability within communities is valuable. Rather than relying solely on external help, which may not always be available, he suggested fostering local resilience. From an administrative standpoint, building redundancy in technology could also be vital. Wang referenced how the Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay,¹⁶ a nonprofit run for over 20 years by retirees, has created a local radio communication channel that remains operational even if an earthquake knocks out power. Such initiatives demonstrate the importance of having within every vulnerable community dedicated individuals as well as groups who can lead efforts in engagement and empowerment. Wang emphasized the necessity of enlisting the services of local champions who can spearhead these efforts, as they are essential for building resilient communities.

Block concurred with Wang’s perspective. Fifteen years ago, she recalled, she was warned that publishing predictions from the FIRIS could irreparably damage trust if it was wrong even once. Now, despite their inherent uncertainty, not only are uncertain models being published multiple times a day, but communities are eagerly seeking this information. Highlighting a notable initiative, Block mentioned how the National Weather Service in Norman, Oklahoma, has launched an experimental program for wildfire warnings and alerts¹⁷—an unprecedented step. Historically, officials have only notified communities about fires when evacuation was imminent—which is unlike the case when the National Weather Service frequently warns about flash floods or tornadoes.

While decision and warning fatigue remain concerns, especially with the number of small fires, Block noted a resulting shift in community expectations. Community members now desire timely information about potential threats, even if immediate evacuation is not required. She warned that if governments fail to provide this data, the tech industry may step in—potentially in ways not aligned with the public’s best interests in mind. She advocated

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¹⁶ More information about Emergency Volunteer Corps of Nehalem Bay is available at https://evcnb.org/

¹⁷ More information about the initiative to speed wildfire response is available at https://ag.ok.gov/groundbreaking-agency-collaboration-speeds-wildfire-response/

for starting to inform the public earlier about ongoing situations, which if initiated would mark a pivotal change in wildfire communication and community engagement strategies.

SOCIETAL RESILIENCE VERSUS SOCIAL RESILIENCE

Susan Cutter remarked that while the panel discussed societal resilience, they had not fully addressed social resilience—which, she emphasized, centers on “interactions and personal connectivity for positive relationships as a mechanism to reduce stress,” and is a “key element in recovery and in facilitating recovery.” She asked not only whether tools and technologies can be used to help understand social interactions and connections among individuals and households, but also whether connectivity between people can be used as a tool in development strategies.

Mentioning a mapping tool used to track house rebuilding in communities, Winter noted the potential role of similar tools in bolstering social resilience through technology. She pointed to how the use of Facebook groups after disasters can help maintain community ties despite people being physically separated. Acknowledging the varying perceptions of technology—for some it is negative, while others see its potential for positive impact—she stressed how the evolution of technology toward a greater emphasis on interactive communication that listens to communities (likening it to the need to use our ears more than our mouths) is a pivotal shift needed to make disaster communication tools and technology more effective.

Lahm described the addition of 15,000 PM_2.5 sensors being used to enhance air quality monitoring and messaging for the Fire and Smoke Map.¹⁸ These sensors were primarily contributed by concerned individuals, fostering a network that shares information across communities. This collaborative approach aids in addressing challenges related to social resilience, particularly when it comes to managing wildfire smoke impacts. By integrating data from governmental and nongovernmental sources, and thereby reducing stress and improving resilience in the process, the community gains actionable insights that are crucial for public health during air quality events.

Wang emphasized the importance of community-level responses during disasters, highlighting how immediate aid often comes from neighbors and local communication. He mentioned the Barangay community model in the Philippines, by which neighborhoods are organized into small units to facilitate mutual support during crises.¹⁹ This bottom-up approach can foster, among residents, both connectivity and altruism, which he believes are crucial for effective disaster response. While unsure of the technological implications, Wang advocated for more localized efforts to strengthen not only community resilience but also people’s willingness to assist each other during emergencies.

Harnessing Technology for Behavioral Change and Resilience in Wildfire Management

Wall highlighted the challenge of changing societal and individual behaviors, noting its inherent difficulty. She posed a question to the panelists, asking whether potential technological interventions could be used to facilitate behavior change, encourage proactive actions, and, as Cutter had pointed out, enhance social resilience and recovery. Additionally, Wall sought insights into specific opportunities where technology could play a role in addressing these challenges.

Block, building on her earlier remarks about empowering citizens through education and effective communication, referenced Southern California’s cultural attachment to eucalyptus trees—despite the ecological risks.²⁰ This, she said, highlights the importance of informed decision-making based on real-time risk assessments. By leveraging technology, using platforms such as Watch Duty,²¹ which monitors and disseminates fire-related information, individuals can gain a clearer understanding of risks within their communities. She proposed that this approach not only improves safety and awareness, but also promotes behavioral changes driven by a nuanced understand-

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¹⁸ Real time information is available on the Fire and Smoke Map at https://fire.airnow.gov

¹⁹ Cuya-Antonio, O. C. (2017). Effectiveness of the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees (BDRRMCs) in flood-prone Barangays in Cabanatuan City, Philippines. Open Access Library Journal, 4, 1–16.

²⁰ For more information on eucalyptus trees see https://www.kqed.org/science/4209/eucalyptus-california-icon-fire-hazard-and-invasive-species

²¹ More information about Watch Duty is available at https://www.watchduty.org/

ing of local risk levels. Block acknowledged the challenges faced by local fire departments in adapting to these changes, but went on to stress the positive reception and beneficial impact on community safety and awareness.

Winter highlighted how people may feel powerless to prevent negative outcomes. Technology, she emphasized, can empower individuals to enact meaningful change when challenged with mitigating catastrophic wildfire incidents by influencing human behavior. While many express a desire for change, few are willing to initiate it—and even fewer are willing to lead it. Winter advocated for reframing questions and using technology to demonstrate how an individual can lead change without having to be the forefront figure. For instance, involving communities in wildfire recovery efforts through media participation can sustain people’s engagement and foster a sense of active involvement. Emphasizing that small actions can catalyze significant impacts when technology is used purposefully, Block underscored the importance of letting communities define for themselves how technology can assist them—rather than having external panels impose solutions.

Lahm highlighted the widespread impact of wildland fire smoke across North America. Acknowledging rising temperatures, he emphasized the need for climate-ready policies that include smoke measures—for example, HVAC systems capable of mitigating air pollutants. No matter whether the smoke comes from prescribed fires or wildfires, it is necessary to address these issues due to their health implications. Calling for proactive policy changes and motivation to integrate smoke mitigation into building standards, Lahm stressed the urgent need for leadership in implementing these measures. This approach could potentially address challenges related to not only managing fuels but also responding to different types of fires.

NAVIGATING INTEGRATION AND COLLABORATION IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT TECHNOLOGY

Jonathan Fink asked panelists for examples of successful integration where different perspectives, data streams, and tools have been effectively combined. He highlighted a barrier faced by academics with regard to their not receiving recognition for integrating existing technologies and methods—compared with others who develop new innovations. He posed a question: How can one create synergies?

Wang emphasized the importance of using strategic integration to address the right set of challenges or questions, rather than integrating everything into a single model or system. In disaster scenarios, he cautioned against excessive reliance on technology, noting its potential for failure. While acknowledging the benefits of leveraging technology and datasets–including AI and machine learning in disaster management—he has observed the need for cautious exploration and learning in this area due to its complexity and potential pitfalls.

Block highlighted the complexity of integrating data for fire programs, noting the trend since Hurricane Katrina of using common operational picture tools. Despite efforts to streamline data, challenges persist. There is currently a process of triaging across multiple tools for real-time decision-making. Given the political and practical considerations within fire departments, she suggested the necessity of flexibility when incorporating new datasets or tools. The integration of tools such as Watch Duty with existing processes illustrates the ongoing evolution and need for local firefighters’ contextual knowledge used to interpret data accurately. For example, a detected hot spot could be a solar panel instead of a fire. Block has observed that while complexities persist, adapting and learning from these experiences is of paramount importance for fire management strategies.

Regarding the human side, Winter pointed out that technology integration extends beyond tools to include discussions and collaboration. She mentioned an upcoming experiment in the Northwest Territories involving the lighting of a crown fire near buildings—which sparked not only concerns about smoke emissions, but also considerations on augmenting existing technology in order to study smoke effects. She stressed that while technology plays an important role, meaningful progress often arises from conversations and shared curiosity among individuals who are exploring shared questions and challenges.

Lahm referenced the importance of mutual learning and collaboration, highlighting the value of integrating various attributes, mapping systems, and data points. Despite differences in interpretation and packaging, these approaches ultimately both complement one another and facilitate critical cross-pollination. He underscored the need to explore larger platforms and additional opportunities for linkage, noting that some collaboration opportunities are readily accessible and could lead to improved outcomes as well as greater certainty.

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