ABSTRACT
This chapter reports on new research which overviews vulnerability to arson in terms of geographical location, temporal factors and socio-economic characteristics, as well as the personal characteristics of those most likely to light an illegal fire. Such knowledge is targeted for prevention programs to improve the identification of those likely to light a fire and improve community awareness to report concerns. It also overviews new approaches of assessing and rating risk of bushfire, coordinating a range of variables of place and vulnerability, in order to better utilise resources to prevent fire occurrence. The chapter provides an Australian context, observing that a number of events are coalescing to create an increase in the risk of more frequent and serious bushfires in Australia. The risk lies at the interface between environment/locational conditions and human behaviour. A member of the United States Forest Service based in Oregon provides a perspective on rural arson, observing the importance of educational programs.
