Abstract:

Forest fires require specific response depending on the physical features of the terrain and its social use. This paper shows two areas which, have completely different ignitor characteristics despite their spatial proximity. These are the Metropolitan Area of Barcelona, which is completely urban, and the county of Bages, much more rural. These differences have been observed from the collection and analysis of the data of the fires that took place in these two areas between 1987 and 1998. The data show a different distribution of fire outbreaks in more dense urban areas and in more spread out rural areas, where fires are more difficult to detect. This fact explains why a larger area was burnt in Bages during the lapse of time studied. It is important, thus, that the policies to be applied are customized with specific and differentiate characteristics for every case. Key words: forest fires, ignition, propagation, Geographical Information Systems, continuity of vegetation mass.

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