A survey of wildfire risk-mitigation actions taken by homeowners in the Alaskan wildland–urban interface

Alaska is warming at an unprecedented rate. Climate change is changing flammable fuel loads across the state and increasing the risk from wildfires, especially in the wildland–urban interface (WUI). A survey assessing wildfire risk perceptions and preparedness was administered to WUI homeowners in two Alaskan boroughs. The differences between boroughs, as well as homeowner wildfire risk, defensible space, and other mitigation actions, are examined in detail. A logit model was used to predict the likelihood of a homeowner taking wildfire risk-reducing actions. Results of the survey showed significant differences in subjective risk measures when compared to objective risk measures, as defined by community wildfire protection plans. While a few differences emerged between boroughs, risk-mitigating actions (including building defensible space around the home) were linked to differences in subjective risk perceptions. These results help build upon the resilience of Alaskan WUI populations and show how that resiliency can be increased in the face of climate change.