Extreme weather is on the rise.
2024 alone saw 27 weather and climate disasters in the United States, causing at least $1 billion in damages. and fires are a top risk of these extreme weather events.
With rising global temperatures creating hotter, drier conditions, fire seasons are extending dramatically.
Scientists project that by the end of the century, the continental U.S. will face an average of 10 additional days of extreme wildfire risk annually.
As we face this new reality, it's clear that traditional fire safety approaches will no longer be sufficient. Businesses, facility managers, and communities must adapt their strategies to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure in an increasingly unpredictable environment.
This article will explore the evolving landscape of extreme weather fire risks and outline adaptive fire safety strategies essential for resilience
How Extreme Weather Enhances Fire Risks
The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events significantly alter the landscape of fire risks.
There are many environmental fire hazards to consider, including:
- Droughts: Extended periods of drought create ideal conditions for wildfires by drying out vegetation and increasing its flammability.
- Strong Winds: High winds can rapidly spread fires and make them more difficult to contain. Strong winds can also down power lines, potentially igniting fires in dry conditions.
- Winter Storms: While not typically associated with fire risks, winter storms can indirectly contribute to fire hazards. Heavy snow and ice can damage trees and power lines, creating potential ignition sources.
- Prolonged Heatwaves: Extended periods of extreme heat dry out vegetation and increase fire risk. 2024 saw intense wildfire activity across the globe, with North and South America being the most affected continents.
Examples of extreme weather fire risks streak the internet. Perhaps the most top of mind is the fire event that set the Golden State aflame in January 2025.
The greater Los Angeles area experienced devastating wildfires that ravaged over 36,000 acres and destroyed thousands of structures. The fires were fueled by a combination of drought conditions and above-average temperatures, conditions scientists attribute to climate change.
The rest of the West Coast didn’t fare much better.
Last year, Oregon set a new record for its wildfire season, with over 1.9 million acres burned. Plus, the South Fork Fire near Ruidoso, New Mexico, ignited amid severe drought conditions and high winds, rapidly spreading and destroying over a thousand structures. And a million more acres burned along the Montana/Wyoming border.
These environmental fire hazards underscore the critical need for businesses and communities to adapt their fire safety strategies to address the evolving risks posed by extreme weather events.
3 Ways Businesses Can Adapt Their Fire Safety Strategies to Withstand Severe Weather
As extreme weather fire risks become more prevalent, businesses must evolve their fire safety strategies to ensure resilience. Let’s take a closer look at three ways to accomplish this goal.
1. Conduct Climate Risk Assessments
Climate risk assessments are crucial for businesses to identify and mitigate potential fire hazards exacerbated by extreme weather. These assessments should consider both chronic risks, like gradual changes in temperature and rainfall, and acute risks, such as sudden events like wildfires.
To conduct an effective assessment, businesses should:
- Define the scope and objectives, considering impacts on facilities, assets, supply chain, and employees.
- Gather historical and current data on company locations, including regional climate projections.
- Use specialized tools and methodologies, such as risk matrices and temperature score analysis.
Consider working with experienced fire safety consultants or using smart technology tools to assist with comprehensive assessments. The insights gained from these assessments will inform fire safety strategies that address specific climate-related risks.
2. Maintain and Upgrade Fire Protection Systems
Ensuring fire protection systems remain functional during extreme weather is critical. This involves more than just maintaining current systems; it requires strategic upgrades to fire detection technology to withstand severe conditions.
One key upgrade is the implementation of voice evacuation systems that can provide specific instructions for various emergencies, including severe weather events like tornadoes and hurricanes. These systems enhance communication during crises, potentially saving lives.
Power dependability is another crucial factor, especially for fire pumps in high-rise buildings. Installing secondary power supplies or backup diesel-driven pumps can ensure continuous operation during power outages. It's also important to maintain adequate fuel supplies for these backup systems.
For regions prone to freezing temperatures, installing heat tracing systems and climate control can prevent frozen pipes in water-based fire protection systems, like fire sprinklers. In some cases, upgrading to clean agent suppression systems might be advisable, as these can be more resilient in extreme conditions.
3. Use Fire-Resistant Building Materials
Enhancing structural resilience is key to withstanding extreme weather and reducing fire risks. This involves using fire-resistant building materials in construction and renovations, as well as implementing design improvements that account for potential climate-related risks.
Creating defensible space around properties is crucial, especially in wildfire-prone areas. This involves removing flammable vegetation and ensuring trees and shrubs are spaced apart.
For buildings themselves, consider innovative technologies like fire-resistant gels, foams, or aluminum wraps to protect against approaching heat and burning embers.
Roofing and ventilation are particularly vulnerable areas. Installing fire-resistant roofing materials and ember-resistant vents can significantly reduce a building's vulnerability to wind-blown embers during wildfires.
By implementing these adaptive strategies and regularly reviewing and updating them, businesses can significantly enhance their fire safety preparedness in the face of increasing climate-related risks. Plus, advanced fire protection systems may also lower your insurance premiums.
Tips To Execute Your New Weather-Related Fire Strategy
Now that you have an adaptive fire safety strategy for your building, it’s time to put it into practice.
A well-crafted weather-related fire strategy encompasses emergency response planning, employee training, and collaboration with local emergency services.
Create an Extreme Weather Emergency Response Plan
An effective emergency response plan should be tailored to address various extreme weather scenarios that could lead to fire risks. This plan should outline clear procedures for different situations, such as wildfires driven by high winds, electrical fires caused by severe storms, or fires resulting from prolonged heatwaves and drought conditions.
Regularly review and update this plan to ensure it remains relevant as weather patterns and business operations evolve.
Conduct Employee Training and Fire Drills in High-Risk Areas
Thorough employee training is crucial for the successful implementation of any fire safety strategy. In high-risk areas prone to extreme weather events, this training becomes even more vital.
Conduct regular fire drills that simulate various weather-related fire scenarios. These drills should familiarize employees with evacuation procedures, the use of fire suppression equipment, and communication protocols during emergencies. Consider incorporating elements that mimic extreme weather conditions, such as reduced visibility or blocked exit routes, to better prepare staff for real-life situations.
Additionally, provide specialized training for employees with specific roles in the emergency response plan. This might include first aid training, advanced fire suppression techniques, or leadership skills for those designated as floor wardens or evacuation coordinators.
Partner with Local Fire Departments and Emergency Services
Collaboration with local fire departments and emergency services is invaluable in developing and refining your weather-related fire strategy. These partnerships can provide:
- Expert insights into local weather patterns and associated fire risks
- Access to advanced warning systems for extreme weather events
- Joint training exercises to improve coordination during emergencies
- Feedback on your emergency response plans and procedures
Invite local fire officials to tour your facilities and provide recommendations for improving fire safety measures. This collaboration can lead to faster response times and more effective interventions during emergencies.
Why Businesses Must Stay Ahead of Fire Safety in a Changing Climate
Fire safety isn’t a one-and-done task; it’s an ongoing commitment to the safety of your people, products, and infrastructure.
This is especially true as extreme weather reshapes what “good” fire safety looks like, making it crucial for business owners and facility managers to stay on top of the latest advancements in fire detection technology.
Advanced fire detection systems now incorporate smart sensors and AI algorithms to identify potential fire risks before they escalate. Satellite technology and drones equipped with thermal imaging capabilities are being deployed to monitor large areas for early signs of wildfires, allowing for faster response times.
As climate-related fire risks evolve, so too must the regulations governing fire safety. Authorities are updating codes to address emerging hazards, such as those related to renewable energy installations and smart building technologies.
This makes ongoing fire hazard assessments particularly important. Regular audits help businesses identify new risks, ensure compliance with updated regulations, and maintain the effectiveness of their fire safety measures.
Be Extremely Prepared For Extreme Weather
As extreme weather events reshape our environment, businesses must adapt their fire safety strategies to meet these evolving challenges.
But what measures should you implement based on your industry, location, regulatory standards, and goals? How can you create a flexible fire safety strategy unique to your business?
Consider a comprehensive fire safety assessment and learn how our team can help you develop and implement a resilient fire safety strategy tailored to your specific needs.
Let us help you stay ahead of the curve and ensure your business is prepared for whatever challenges the changing climate may bring. Get in touch with a fire safety expert today.
