The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association released a new toolkit on March 25, 2026, to help communities implement coordinated wildfire mitigation programs. The Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Program Framework provides structured guidance for local governments, fire services, and community organizations working to reduce wildfire risk.
The resource focuses on practical, science-based strategies to address home ignition and limit wildfire spread at the neighborhood level.
Framework Outlines Step-by-Step Community Planning
The toolkit provides step-by-step guidance for planning, designing, and launching local wildfire risk-reduction programs. It also includes tools to support long-term program sustainability.
In addition, the framework incorporates science-based home mitigation standards. These include structural hardening measures and defensible space requirements, such as maintaining a 0- to 5-foot noncombustible safety zone around properties.
The resource also provides assessment and training materials designed to support consistent property evaluations. These materials aim to help communities train home assessors and standardize mitigation practices.
Implementation Tools and Outreach Strategies Included
The framework includes practical implementation tools such as program checklists, sample forms, funding considerations, and administrative guidance. These resources are designed to help communities operationalize wildfire mitigation efforts.
It also outlines outreach and coordination strategies to engage homeowners, local partners, and supply chain providers. The goal is to encourage community-wide participation in risk reduction efforts.
Steve Hawks, senior director for wildfire at IBHS, stated that many communities now face wildfire as an ongoing risk. He said the toolkit provides a consistent, research-based approach that communities can use to reduce home ignition and strengthen neighborhoods.
Focus on Reducing Structure-to-Structure Fire Spread
The framework highlights the role of structure-to-structure fire spread in wildfire events. Unlike some natural disasters, wildfires can intensify when they move from wildland areas into neighborhoods. A single home ignition can lead to a chain reaction of fire spread between structures.
The toolkit emphasizes strengthening homes and creating defensible space across entire neighborhoods. These measures aim to reduce the likelihood of widespread destruction.
Karen Collins, vice president of property and environmental at APCIA, noted that wildfire risk remains a persistent issue. She said reducing the likelihood of home ignition from embers, flames, and extreme heat is critical. She also highlighted the importance of community-wide action led by local officials and supported by property owners.
Broad Industry and Fire Service Support
The framework has received support from organizations across wildfire mitigation, fire services, and the insurance sector.
The National Fire Protection Association contributed wildfire risk reduction information and messaging to the toolkit. Michele Steinberg, the organization’s wildfire division director, said the resource helps deliver critical mitigation information to communities.
California State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant emphasized the role of community coordination. He stated that informed and connected communities can take meaningful action to reduce wildfire risk.
Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple highlighted the framework’s focus on evidence-based strategies, including home hardening and expanding defensible space.
Jessica Martinez of the California Fire Safe Council said tools that translate wildfire science into practical resources can support local mitigation efforts.
Chief Jeremy Craft of the Western Fire Chiefs Association noted that fire services cannot protect every structure during a wildfire. He said residents must take action before a fire occurs.
Mark Novak of the International Association of Fire Chiefs pointed to current weather conditions, including warm temperatures and low precipitation, as factors increasing wildfire risk. He said the framework provides clear guidance for community preparedness.
Insurance Industry Perspective on Mitigation Efforts
Insurance organizations also expressed support for the framework’s approach.
Kenton Brine, president of the NW Insurance Council, said insurers have promoted wildfire mitigation for more than a decade. He noted that the framework provides access to proven tools that help prevent the spread of fire in built environments.
Carole Walker, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Insurance Association, said the framework helps communities implement preparedness strategies that improve home safety and insurability.
Access to the Toolkit
Communities can access the full Community Wildfire Risk Reduction Program Framework through IBHS. The resource includes templates, guidance documents, and implementation materials designed to support local wildfire mitigation programs.
The IBHS conducts scientific research to identify effective actions that strengthen homes, businesses, and communities against natural disasters. APCIA serves as a national trade association representing property and casualty insurers across the United States.
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