Lessons learnt from post-bushfire surveys at the urban interface in Australia

Abstract: Wildfires or Bushfires present specific risks to life and property when they reach the interface between wildland area and urban area. The issues surrounding house loss are complex and include several aspects linked to mechanisms of ignition and propagation of bushfire in urban areas. The severity of the weather, topography and fuel load will determine the intensity of these attack mechanisms. In addition building design, town planning and human activity significantly influence the risk of loss. To better understand both the attack mechanisms and the vulnerabilities of urban area several surveys following large fire events resulting in significant house loss have been conducted. This paper presents some of the key lessons learnt from these investigations. The outcomes of this research are being used to provide effective mitigation solutions where bushfire risk is present and establish the basic knowledge for the development of a risk model at the urban interface. Keywords: urban interface, risk, vulnerability, survey, house loss, property, community, mitigation measures