The rural fire problem, according to the National Fire Protection Association is the fact that “the fire death rate of rural communities is roughly twice the rate of the rest of the United States”. Demographic characteristics, geographic features, technological attributes, and socioeconomic trends contribute to an increased risk of dying in a fire if you live, work or recreate in a rural area. Residential structure fires are the most common cause of individuals dying due to fire, while wildfires are infrequent they may result in multiple fatalities. Understanding community vulnerability begins with identification of risk factors associated with local fire incidents, comparison of local demographic data to national risk factors, and community development needs.
Approaching the rural fire problem from a community development perspective, this research extracts data collected by the National Fire Incident Reporting System, the National Fire Protection Association, the United States Fire Administration and the United States Census. Population risk factors are identified and compared to demographic data to highlight the attributes that increase fire risk for rural residents.
Declining population, low population density, aging residents, and higher rates of poverty overlap with remoteness, travel distances and response times to increase community fire risk. Collectively these same characteristics impair recruitment, retention, preparation, and availability of volunteers for rural fire agencies. Rural community demographic characteristics limit the availability of qualified staff to respond effectively to routine residential fires. Many rural fire agencies rely upon a system of mutual aid to utilize manpower and equipment from neighboring communities. Wildland fires require specialized equipment and training that exceed the capacity of rural mutual aid systems.
Addressing the rural fire problem requires the enhancement and development of community capitals that may be untapped in rural communities. Financial capital development may depend on grant writing that leverages community vulnerability to acquire essential equipment and training. Incentives, status, and community recognition may encourage human capital growth necessary to repopulate dwindling fire agencies. Implementing community risk reduction programs can target rural hazards and reduce rural fire fatalities. Renewed community commitment and engagement will build trust and organizational social capital to sustain the rural volunteer fire service challenged by the persistent rural fire problem.
