Wildfires are becoming more frequent, destructive, and complex, placing increasing numbers of homes and communities at risk. On Tuesday, July 29, Brookings Metro and Economic Architecture hosted the second event of the Safe, Healthy, Resilient Homes series, an in-person discussion on how structural innovations are transforming wildfire resilience in the United States.
This event brought together leaders who are advancing both cutting-edge technologies and community-based strategies to reduce wildfire risks at the magnitude this moment demands. From early detection systems to neighborhood-level mitigation to new frameworks for fire-adapted communities, the conversation covered how emergency response models can be complemented with systems that prioritize long-term safety, resilience, and equity.
The speakers, including HSToday’s Editorial Board member Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, explored how to align markets, public safety, and housing policy to protect lives, livelihoods, and the built environment in the face of escalating wildfire threats.