Zeke Lunder and David Hertz discuss the role of architects in fire mitigation, highlighting the importance of home hardening and community brigades. They discuss the challenges of rebuilding in fire-prone areas, such as the Palisades and Bel Air, and the potential for consolidating lots to create fire breaks. The conversation also touches on the impact of climate change, the limitations of insurance, and the necessity of individual preparedness and community resilience.
Role of Architects in Fire Mitigation
- Zeke expresses interest in discussing the role of architects in fire mitigation.
- He mentions the blame often placed on the forestry industry for past disasters and suggests a similar critique of architecture.
- David Hertz, an architect and member of the Malibu Community Fire Brigade, shares his experience with the Woolsey Fire and the creation of the community brigade program.
- The program aims to train locals to respond to fires and harden homes against fire hazards.
Community Brigade Program and Fire Risk Assessment
- Hertz discusses the development of the community brigade program and its success in responding to fires.
- He highlights the importance of home ignition zone hardening and the non-codified fire risks that often go unnoticed.
- Hertz introduces “Defend” an AI-based scanning tool to review plans for non-codified fire risks.
- The tool helps homeowners identify potential fire hazards that might not be caught in the building review process.
Challenges of Fire-Prone Areas and Resilience Strategies
- Zeke and Hertz discuss the challenges of rebuilding in fire-prone areas like Bel Air and Beverly Hills.
- Hertz suggests consolidating lots to create fire breaks and resilience pockets.
- They talk about the importance of using fire-resistant materials and landscaping to reduce fire risk.
- Hertz emphasizes the need for situational awareness and community involvement in fire mitigation efforts.
Mutual Aid and Community Resilience
- Zeke and Hertz discuss the role of mutual aid and community brigades in fire response.
- Hertz highlights the importance of individuals being their own heroes by making their homes defensible.
- They talk about the challenges of rebuilding in areas with high fire risk and the need for better planning and infrastructure.
- Hertz mentions the potential for using independent water sources and automated sprinkler systems to improve fire resilience.
Architectural Education and Fire Resilience
- Zeke asks about the education architects receive on fire behavior and hazards.
- Hertz explains that fire dynamics and severity are not currently required subjects in architectural education.
- They discuss the need for architects to understand fire resilience and incorporate it into their designs.
- Hertz shares his experience teaching a fire resilience studio and the importance of integrating fire safety into architectural training.
Impact of Climate Change and Fire Risk
- Hertz discusses the impact of climate change on fire risk and the need for better planning and infrastructure.
- They talk about the challenges of rebuilding in areas with high fire risk and the importance of situational awareness.
- Hertz emphasizes the need for community-based brigades and individual preparedness.
- They discuss the role of insurance companies in incentivizing fire-resistant building practices.
Balancing Built Environment and Natural Environment
- Zeke and Hertz discuss the balance between the built environment and natural environment in fire-prone areas.
- Hertz suggests using biophilic design and nature-inspired elements to create fire-resistant landscapes.
- Hertz emphasizes the importance of community involvement and mutual aid in fire mitigation efforts.
Future of Fire Mitigation and Community Resilience
- Zeke and Hertz discuss the future of fire mitigation and community resilience.
- Hertz highlights the importance of situational awareness and community involvement in fire mitigation efforts.
- They talk about the challenges of rebuilding in areas with high fire risk and the need for better planning and infrastructure.
- Hertz emphasizes the role of insurance companies in incentivizing fire-resistant building practices and the importance of individual preparedness.