Connected FM: A Blog by IFMA

Wildfire Crisis Toolkit: Essential Free Resources for Facility Managers

Written by Elizabeth Shelton | Jan 14, 2025 1:57:39 PM

As wildfires continue to ravage parts of Southern California, the impact on the community, businesses and facilities is tremendous. Facility managers are not only tasked with ensuring the safety of occupants but also securing physical assets and minimizing operational disruptions. 

Beyond the immediate threat of fire, facilities face secondary hazards such as: 

  • Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ): Smoke from wildfires can significantly impact IAQ, causing respiratory problems for people in the vicinity. 
  • Utility Disruptions: Wildfires often lead to power outages, damage to electrical infrastructure and can affect the water supply. 
  • Structural Instability: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can compromise the building’s structural integrity. 

Facility Management Resources for the Wildfire Crisis 

To support facility managers during this time, we’ve curated a comprehensive resource page that includes: 

  • Case studies around improving indoor air quality in wildfire-affected areas. 
  • Expert articles on enhancing IAQ amidst outdoor air quality challenges. 
  • Resources and infographics focused on minimizing the impact of wildfire smoke on occupants. 
  • Mitigation strategies to reduce smoke intrusion and safeguard IAQ. 
  • A free online course from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) on reducing wildfire risks to property. 

... And many more valuable tools and resources to help ensure that your facility is prepared to face these challenges head on.