Science You Can Use 101: Wildfire Risk

The word “risk” is often used informally to talk about feelings of danger or chances of loss. When communicating about wildfire risk, both inside the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service and with the
public and others, careful and intentional use of the term “risk” is more likely to increase shared understanding of all involved. What does “risk” mean? How is risk measured? How can wildfire risk be reduced? Can wildfire risk be eliminated? This document shares definitions of risk in a technical sense, consistent with how the insurance industry considers risk. It focuses mainly on wildfire risk related to communities and how that risk can be reduced.