1. SFT
  2. Archiwum
  3. Vol. 67 1/2026
  4. Fire Safety of Buildings in the Conte...

Fire Safety of Buildings in the Context of Wildfires

Łukasz, Tyburski, Ph.D. Eng.

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DOI: 10.12845/sft.67.1.2026.6, pages: 134 – 144

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this publication is to analyse legal regulations and present best practices for managing the space around buildings located near forests or other green areas.

Introduction: Progressive urbanisation near forests and agricultural areas creates a contact zone known in the literature as the wildland-urban interface (WUI). Disturbances caused by variable climatic conditions, including prolonged periods without rain, are becoming increasingly common. These conditions facilitate fire ignition, which can exhibit dangerous combustion dynamics. Such phenomena can lead to catastrophic fires, resulting in the destruction of buildings and linear infrastructure. In Poland, most buildings have concrete structures and non-flammable roof coverings, which theoretically increase their fire resistance. However, the development of buildings adjacent to forests, combined with improper vegetation management or a lack of thoughtful landscaping, creates a real risk of significant material losses. In the event of a fire in forest areas, the fire can spread into urban areas not only through the continuity of plant fuel but also via wind-blown embers. To minimise economic losses and increase residents' safety, it is essential to properly design so-called defensive zones around buildings.

Methodology: A literature review of publicly available documents and legal regulations examined best practices and guidelines for managing the space around residential buildings near forests. The document analysis focused on selected countries where the issue of fires at the interface between forests and human settlements has been studied for many years.

Conclusions: Properly shaping the space around buildings and maintaining supporting infrastructure, including the removal of dead plant matter, increases fire safety in urban areas. Implementing standards for managing the space around buildings can enhance the effectiveness of property protection in the event of fires in adjacent forests or agricultural areas. To improve fire safety, it is necessary to raise awareness among land managers regarding the proper management of vegetation and the placement of garden infrastructure elements. Failure to act in this area can result in significant property losses if fires occur in non-urbanised areas and spread to urban areas.

Keywords: safety of buildings, spatial planning, wildfires, defensive zone

Type of article: review article

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