The Chemistry of Fires at the Wildland-Urban Interface (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780309277051)

Wildfires in America are becoming larger, more frequent, and more destructive, driven by climate change and existing land management practices. Many of these fires occur at the wildland-urban interface (WUI), areas where development and wildland areas overlap and which are increasingly at risk of devastating fires as communities continue to expand into previously undeveloped areas. Unlike conventional wildfires, WUI fires are driven in part by burning of homes, cars, and other human-made structures, and in part by burning vegetation. The interaction of these two types of fires can lead to public health effects that are unique to WUI fires.

This report evaluates existing and needed chemistry information that decision-makers can use to mitigate WUI fires and their potential health impacts. It describes key fuels of concern in WUI fires, especially household components like siding, insulation, and plastic, examines key pathways for exposure, including inhalation and ingestion, and identifies communities vulnerable to exposures. The report recommends a research agenda to inform response to and prevention of WUI fires, outlining needs in characterizing fuels, and predicting emissions and toxicants.

Author: National Academies of Sciences Engineeri, Division on Earth and Life Studies, Board on Chemical Sciences and Technolog
ISBN-10: 0309277051
ISBN-13: 9780309277051
Publisher: National Academies Press
Language: English
Published: 01/23/2023
Pages: 214
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.30lbs
Size: 10.90h x 8.40w x 0.60d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 06/01/2023