Understanding Wildfire Resilience Through Controlled Burns

In response to the increasing threat of wildfires exacerbated by climate change, the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is conducting controlled burn experiments in Richburg, South Carolina. These tests aim to identify effective strategies for protecting homes from the devastating impacts of wildfires.

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Wildfires in the United States have intensified, burning an average area equivalent to Massachusetts annually from 2016 to 2025, which is 2.6 times the average burn area of the 1980s. The National Interagency Fire Center reports that wildfires have caused an average of $17.7 billion in damages each year since 2020. Factors contributing to this trend include climate change, which extends fire seasons, and urban development in fire-prone areas.

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The IBHS, a nonprofit organization established by insurers, focuses on enhancing the resilience of homes and buildings against natural disasters. Roy Wright, the president of IBHS, emphasizes the importance of their research, stating, “We crash test houses.” The institute's findings have already influenced building codes, particularly in California, mandating ignition-resistant materials and creating defensible spaces around homes.

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The IBHS has ignited 13 homes in controlled settings to study fire behavior and resilience. These homes are equipped with sensors and cameras to gather data during the burns. The research has shown that homes fortified with better materials can withstand flames longer. For instance, a house designed with ignition-resistant walls and tempered windows burned more slowly than a standard home.

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Researchers have also identified the significance of maintaining a defensible space around homes, recommending a 5-foot buffer free of easily combustible materials. This buffer zone is critical as flames can quickly spread from nearby vegetation and structures, especially under high wind conditions.

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While the IBHS's research has led to improved building codes, experts like Jacob Bendix from Syracuse University caution that these standards may have limited effectiveness under extreme fire conditions. High winds can compromise even the best-prepared homes, highlighting the need for ongoing research and adaptation in fire prevention strategies.

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Nicholai Allen, a wildland firefighter and entrepreneur, has developed fire prevention products aimed at homeowners. He likens wildfire preparedness to winter readiness, stating, “It’s kind of like if you live in the snow, you have a snow shovel... certain preventative steps in order to live in an environment that, hey, sometimes snows.” This perspective underscores the growing recognition of wildfire preparedness as a necessary aspect of homeownership in vulnerable areas.

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The IBHS plans to continue its research on wildfire resilience, exploring additional factors such as hail damage and long-term weather impacts on building materials. As climate conditions evolve, the institute's findings will be crucial for informing future building practices and enhancing community safety in fire-prone regions.

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• “We crash test houses,” — Roy Wright, President, Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety

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• “Under really severe fire conditions, especially those involving very high winds, they probably are of more limited value,” — Jacob Bendix, Fire Researcher, Syracuse University

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• “It’s kind of like if you live in the snow, you have a snow shovel, you have scrapers, and you know that you have to take certain preventative steps in order to live in an environment that, hey, sometimes snows,” — Nicholai Allen, Wildland Firefighter and Entrepreneur

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