Effectiveness of firebreaks: a review.

This article explores how firebreak effectiveness depends on a combination of environmental, structural, and operational factors, including width, placement, maintenance, fuel conditions, and suppression capacity. Historical observations and modelling studies indicate that strategically placed and well-maintained firebreaks can reduce wildfire spread and risk; however, breaches remain common during extreme fire events. Firebrand transport, or spotting, is the primary mechanism by which wildfires circumvent firebreaks, with firebrands capable of travelling distances that exceed typical firebreak widths.