Fire Danger Rating Systems
“A fire danger rating system (FDRS) is an assessment of both fixed and variable factors of the fire environment which determine: ease of ignition, rate of spread, difficulty of control and fire impact.” (Alexander & Merrill 1987)
What is a Fire Danger Rating System?
A Fire Danger Rating System (FDRS) assesses various environmental factors that influence wildfire risk, such as ease of ignition, rate of spread, difficulty of control and potential fire impact. According to Alexander & Merrill (1987), it provides a comprehensive evaluation of both fixed and variable elements within the fire environment.
Accurate and timely information on potential fire behaviour is essential for effective wildfire preparedness and prevention. By understanding fire danger levels in advance, both public and private land managers can take proactive steps to reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfires.
How the Fire Danger Rating System supports wildfire management
Integrated fire weather data and seasonal vegetation insights drive smarter, safer land management
Preparedness
Ensure fire services and private wildfire suppression teams are ready to respond quickly and effectively during periods of high risk.
Prevention
Support the delivery of wildfire prevention programmes and public awareness campaigns through accurate, timely forecasting.
Planned Burning
Enable safe and responsible muirburn and prescribed burning by aligning activities with current fire danger conditions.
How we distribute Wildfire Danger Assessments?
When conditions indicate there are going to be elevated levels of fire risk, Firebreak Services Ltd provides fire danger information to the Scottish Wildfire Forum and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Appropriate warnings are then issued to: Government agencies, land management organisations, wildfire groups and the public via social media, TV, radio and print media. Often the elevated risk only covers a region and not the whole of Scotland. In these cases the distribution of information is limited, just to that area.
The development of a Fire Danger Information System for Scotland
Scotland’s Fire Danger Information System (FDIS) has grown over nearly two decades through close collaboration between Firebreak Services, scientists, land managers and emergency services. It began after the Scottish Government funded Firebeaters research Project 2006-08, followed by efforts to adapt international fire danger models to suit Scotland’s distinct fuel types, landscapes and climate. Ongoing research and practical experience, especially in heather moorland areas, have helped shape a system that now delivers clear wildfire danger assessments to support community readiness and safe land use.
Apply for Wildfire Danger Assessment notifications
Organisations and relevant professionals can apply on the Scottish Wildfire Forum website to be automatically sent Wildfire Danger Assessment notices. Applicants must have a relevant purpose for requesting the information and details provided will be screened by the WDA team.