Knowing where to turn for help in the wake of a wildfire can feel overwhelming. With wildfires affecting an increasing number of communities throughout Arizona, residents need clear guidance and actionable steps to recover. The good news? There is a new resource for the Arizonans—" After Wildfire: A Guide for Arizona Communities "—designed to support individuals and communities as they navigate the aftermath of these devastating events.
This comprehensive guidebook on community disaster recovery was produced through a combined effort by NAU's School of Forestry, the Southwest Fire Science Consortium, Arizona Wildfire Initiative, Forest Stewards Guild and Eliza Kretzmann Consulting. It's available to view and download for free on the Southwest Fire Science Consortium website .
With insights from fire and emergency management leaders, utility administrators and municipal officials across the state, "After Wildfire: A Guide for Arizona Communities" is an essential resource for anyone impacted by wildland fire.
"We developed this guide in response to a clear need in Arizona," said Andi Thode, director of the Arizona Wildfire Initiative in the School of Forestry at NAU, which funded the project. "Other states have similar resources that serve as vital clearinghouses of information before, during and after wildfire events."
Whether you are a homeowner, volunteer, local official or someone directly impacted by a fire or post-fire flooding, this guide contains a comprehensive set of resources from financial assistance to safety advice for people and animals in addition to emotional support for individuals and families navigating recovery.
"'After Wildfire: A Guide for Arizona Communities' fills a critical gap in post-wildfire recovery by providing communities with a centralized, easy-to-navigate resource that brings clarity during a time of chaos," said Gabe Lavine, director of the Arizona Division of Emergency Management. "We'll recommend the guide to local governments, emergency managers and other officials as they navigate recovery, funding and long-term resilience efforts after a wildfire. It's a valuable tool that empowers Arizonans to take informed action during some of their most difficult days."
Holger Durre, chief of the Prescott Fire Department, said one of the guide's greatest strengths is its emphasis on preparing residents before disaster strikes rather than waiting until a wildfire or emergency is already underway.
"In the post-fire phase, this guide will be crucial—offering clear, actionable information at a time when individuals and families need it most," Durre said. "Its immense value lies in how it brings together multiple complex topics—insurance, erosion control, emotional recovery, financial aid and more—into one easy-to-use, accessible resource."
