Forest Fire Hazard Rating Assessment Using Landsat TM Image

The main factors included in the development of the forest fire hazard rating system in this study are fuel types (based on classifications of land-cover types), and the proximity of forests to roads and canals. These have been identified as the most critical factors contributing to fire as described by many researches. The analysis for this study found, the area affected by fire includes a variety of land covers even the agricultural categories. The areas with medium and low slopes (under 40%) were also ranked as medium and low fire hazard respectively. As a conclusion, the integration of remote sensing and GIS techniques in this study made it possible to create an effective fire hazard rating model and to develop a detailed fire hazard rating map for the study area. This integration of spatial variables, therefore, is extremely useful and beneficial for forest fire research.

Sheriza M. Razali, Msc: Studied at Universiti Putra Malaysia. Research Officer at the Ins. of Tropical Forestry & Forests Products, Selangor, Malaysia.