How to Build Resilience

Aug 18, 2023 | Latest

Content courtesy of C2ES

How to Build Resilience
Climate change has been a key factor in increasing the risk and extent of wildfires in the West. Wildfire risk depends on a number of factors, including temperature, soil moisture, and the presence of trees, shrubs, and other potential fuel. All these factors have strong direct or indirect ties to climate variability and climate change. Climate change enhances the drying of organic matter in forests (the material that burns and spreads wildfire), and has doubled the number of large fires between 1984 and 2022.

 

Research shows that changes in climate create warmer, drier conditions. Increased drought, and a longer fire season are boosting these increases in wildfire risk. For much of the U.S. and Canada West, projections show that an average annual 1 degree C temperature increase would increase the median burned area per year as much as 600 percent in some types of forests.

 

Warmer temperatures and drier conditions will make fires spread and make them harder to put out. Warmer, drier conditions also contribute to the spread of the mountain pine beetle and other insects that can weaken or kill trees, building up the fuels in a forest. Land use and forest management also affect wildfire risk. Changes in climate add to these factors and are expected to continue to increase the areas affected by wildfires.

 

Communities, builders, homeowners, and forest managers can reduce the likelihood and impacts of wildfires by:
* Discouraging developments (especially residential) near fire-prone forests through smart zoning rules.
* Increasing the space between structures and nearby trees and brush, and clearing space between neighbouring houses.
* Incorporating fire-resistant design features and materials in buildings while meeting net-zero targets to combat carbon emissions by using high performance window and door products.
* Increasing resources allocated to firefighting and fire prevention.
* Removing fuels, such as dead trees, from forests that are at risk.
* Developing recovery plans before a fire hits, and implementing plans quickly after a fire to reduce erosion, limit flooding, and minimize habitat damage.

 

Westeck isn’t just about products—it’s about service and innovation. The Westeck team is dedicated to guiding you through the selection process, ensuring you get the perfect fit for your home. And with a focus on continuous improvement, staying ahead of trends, ultimately providing you with the latest in window and door technology. Choosing Westeck means investing in quality, style, and peace of mind. Whether it’s windows, doors, or patio doors, Westeck offers solutions that enhance your home’s beauty, comfort, and efficiency. So why settle for anything less? Upgrade your space with Westeck and enjoy the perfect blend of form and function.

Westeck is a premier manufacturer of windows and doors. All major North American and European windows and doors are locally manufactured and proudly displayed in seven well-appointed showrooms including Kelowna, Victoria, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Nanaimo, Kirkland and Bellingham in Washington State. Each window and door is built to order, our customer have the freedom to design and create a product that is unique and personal. Enjoy our latest line of energy efficient windows and doors designed to enhance modern and contemporary architecture.

If you’d like to learn more about our windows, doors, and patio openings contact us Toll-free (US/Canada): 1-877-606-1166 or email us at sales@westeckwindows.com for a consultation with one of our Project Consultants.

 

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