Key framework for addressing wildland fire challenges
(USFA)
United States Fire Administration
This Coffee Break Bulletin provides information on the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy and how it helps local fire departments and residents in wildfire-prone regions to create cities and neighborhoods that can survive wildfire events.
Why the strategy was developed
The 2009 Federal Land Assistance and Enhancement Act (FLAME Act) directed the development of the National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy by the federal government. The strategy:
- Establishes a national vision for wildland fire management.
- Defines three national goals.
- Describes the wildland fire challenges.
- Identifies opportunities to reduce wildfire risks.
- Establishes national priorities focused on achieving the national goals.
Today, the strategy serves as the key framework for addressing wildland fire challenges across the nation. With the growing wildfire threat over the past 10 years, the Wildland Fire Leadership Council, in which the U.S. Fire Administration participates, continues to serve as the key leadership body to adapt and implement policies that address the challenges within wildland fire now and for years to come.
Strategy goals
The National Cohesive Wildland Fire Management Strategy encourages everyone to work together using the best management practices and good research to make progress in three main goals: resilient landscapes, fire-adapted communities, and safe and effective risk-based wildfire response.
Action items for fire departments
- Help your jurisdiction create a Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
- Provide guidance to resident leaders to develop fire-adapted communities.
- Ensure that fire service personnel responding to wildfires have adequate training and equipment.
