Skip to main content
Author(s):
Mary A. Taber, Lisa M. Elenz, Paul G. Langowski
Year Published:

Cataloging Information

Topic(s):
Human Dimensions of Fire Management
Decisionmaking & Sensemaking
Risk
Strategic Risk

NRFSN number: 12748
FRAMES RCS number: 14813
Record updated:

This publication focuses on the thought processes and considerations surrounding a risk management process for decision making on wildfires. The publication introduces a six element risk management cycle designed to encourage sound risk-informed decision making in accordance with Federal wildland fire policy, although the process is equally applicable to non-Federal fire managers and partners. The process describes the assessment and control of identified risks, the analysis of benefits and costs, and the risk decision at multiple scales. Decision makers can apply principles from this publication to specific decision documentation structures such as the Wildland Fire Decision Support System (WFDSS) or other wildland fire decision documentation systems.

Citation

Taber, Mary A.; Elenz, Lisa M.; Langowski, Paul G. 2013. Decision making for wildfires: a guide for applying a risk management process at the incident level. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-298WWW. Fort Collins, CO: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 59 p.