Firewise

Firewise is a community-based program in the United States designed to reduce wildfire risk to homes and neighborhoods by encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect properties and landscapes. The program is administered by the National Fire Protection Association as Firewise USA, with support from the U.S. Forest Service and other partners. It was launched in 2002 to mobilize local residents to implement practical measures that increase resilience to wildfires.

Communities participate by forming a Firewise group, conducting a risk assessment of structures and surrounding vegetation, and developing an action plan to reduce ignition hazards. Commonly encouraged actions include creating defensible space around homes, reducing continuous fuels, using ember-resistant building materials, improving road access for emergency responders, and ensuring adequate water supply for suppression.

To be recognized as Firewise, communities must demonstrate sustained local involvement and progress on their Firewise action plans over a multi-year period. The program emphasizes community education, interagency collaboration, and volunteer engagement, with recognition awarded once criteria are met and renewed through ongoing activities and reporting.

Impact and scope: The Firewise USA program has recognized thousands of communities across many states, providing a framework for wildfire preparedness that complements broader land-management strategies, such as community wildfire protection planning. It serves as a voluntary, locally driven approach to reducing home ignition potential and increasing overall neighborhood resilience to wildfire events.