| Abstract | This research initiative focused on the critical issue of structural ignition within Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, where homes and communities intermingle with undeveloped wildlands. Recognizing that most structural losses in these zones are caused by firebrand (ember) accumulation or indirect ignition of nearby surface fires rather than direct flame contact, the project investigated the combined effects of embers, wind, and radiant heating on common building materials. Sponsored by the Climate Resilient Built Environment (CRBE) Initiative, which is funded by Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC), the work quantified ignition risks that are currently not well addressed in existing building codes. The project culminated in the development of a sophisticated machine learning tool designed to provide predictive intelligence for wildfire risk assessment. |
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