This podcast episode explores the paradigm shift in wildfire preparedness, moving from solely focusing on wildland control to also including community protection. The increasing scale and severity of wildfires, driven by human-caused climate change and the growing number of homes in high-risk areas, have necessitated this shift. The wildfire industry is growing with the development of new technologies, such as smoke detectors for forests and long-term fire retardants. However, the lack of regulation and high costs of wildfire tech have created a "wild west" environment. Home hardening techniques, such as fireproof roofs and removing flammable materials from around the house, are becoming increasingly popular as individuals seek to protect their homes from wildfires. The growing demand for wildfire mitigation services indicates a shift in individual responsibility for living in high-risk areas. Insurance companies are raising rates or refusing to insure homes in these areas, leading homeowners to seek out companies specializing in home hardening. However, experts emphasize the need for a broader societal and political shift to address the issue more comprehensively.
