Reducing Wildfire Damage in Communities

3D model of a house with indicators of fire vulnerability.

We need validated, science-based mitigation strategies to reduce the vulnerability of structures to wildfires.

Project description

The economic and social impacts of wildfires have been rising in recent years, and they now represent a global concern. Although factors such as weather patterns cannot be controlled, the vulnerability of communities can be managed through proper strategies and informed decisions. This project will study historical data from California to investigate effects of different construction features on the fire performance of structures during different wildfire events. The correlation between the level of damage and the intensity of wildfire event, characteristics of the community, environmental factors, etc. will be studied. 

Project outcome

  • A research report and/or poster presentation

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment About 3-5 months; a semester
Start time Anytime
In-person, remote, or hybrid? Hybrid
Level of collaboration Small group project (2-3 students)
Benefits Research experience; academic credit
Who is eligible All undergraduate students 

Core Partners

Project mentor

Negar Elhami-Khorasani

Assistant Professor

Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering

Phone: (716) 645-3019

Email: negarkho@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 

Preparation activities

The specific preparation activities for this project will be customized through discussions between you and your project mentor. Please be sure to ask them for the instructions to complete the required preparation activities.

Keywords

Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering