Social dynamics prove to be the most effective in reducing wildfire risk

In this feature story in the How-to Newsletter, it is shown that the most effective way of reducing wildfire risk is by spreading information, knowledge, and know-how across fire-prone communities. Those people who maintain their own defensible space are more likely to have neighbors who also maintain their defensible space. In addition to motivating those within a community, data also suggests that where individuals get wildfire-related information matters. Findings show that higher levels of mitigation are linked to residents talking about wildfire with their neighbors. While programs and policies can be effective in getting homeowners to mitigate risk, it seems...