Living with wildfire in Estes Valley Fire Protection District, Larimer County, Colorado: 2023 Data report

Homeowner wildfire risk mitigation and preparedness are critical components of community wildfire readiness. This report describes the data collected through two efforts conducted in the Estes Valley Fire Protection District of Larimer County, Colorado, study area: (1) parcel-level rapid wildfire risk assessments performed by trained assessors and (2) homeowner surveys in which respondents provided self-assessments of their parcel-level wildfire risk. This project was undertaken to support Estes Valley Fire Protection District’s desire to enhance resident wildfire risk mitigation and evacuation planning. The household surveys also explored the social dimensions of wildfire, including understanding of wildfire risk, outreach or communication preferences, mitigation and evacuation preparedness activities, and perceptions of community risk reduction strategies. The results provide evidence that despite high levels of wildfire awareness and experience, respondents underestimate the risk on their properties as compared to a trained professional and have not completed important steps in the evacuation preparedness process. However, respondents would like more information on wildfire risk reduction via newsletters (mailed or emailed), community meetings, and in-person interactions.