Why is securing vacant or abandoned properties important for fire science?

Securing vacant or abandoned properties is crucial for fire science primarily because these properties are often associated with numerous fires and firefighter fatalities. Unsecured buildings can become targets for arson, and the lack of maintenance leads to hazardous conditions such as deteriorating structures, which pose significant risks to firefighters during emergency responses. Additionally, the presence of flammable materials and the potential for illegal occupancy can create dangerous environments.

When firefighters respond to incidents at vacant or abandoned properties, they face unique challenges, including the unpredictability of the structure's integrity and the potential lack of readily available information about the layout. This makes it essential to ensure these properties are secured to minimize the risk of fires starting and to protect both the community and emergency responders.

Other considerations related to vacant properties include their potential for wildlife attraction and their use for training exercises, but these factors do not pose the same direct threat to fire safety as the association with fires and fatalities.