Date of Graduation

Summer 8-14-2026

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

MSN project

First Advisor

Dr. Beth Koser Schwartz, PhD, RN, PHN, MAT

Abstract

Objective/Problem: Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fires expose communities to a greater number of hazardous pollutants than traditional wildfires and can pose significant health risks; however, Orange County does not have a standardized public health protocol to address WUI fires. A review of the literature identified the need for standardized WUI fire guidance that is focused on improved preparedness and response. Aim: The FireReady OC quality improvement project aimed to develop an evidence-based public health protocol to improve Orange County’s public health preparedness and response for WUI fire events from 0% to 10% during the 12-week period from May 27, 2026, to August 12, 2026. Methods/Interventions: A phased WUI fire protocol was developed based on 16 evidence-based studies that were evaluated using the Johns Hopkins Nursing Evidence-Based Practice (JHNEBP) model; the intervention consists of WUI fire preparedness, response, and recovery strategies. To assess the quality, feasibility, and community outcomes of the WUI fire protocol, the AGREE-HS, AGREE-REX, CDC CASPER questionnaire, and FEMA After-Action Review (AAR) are used. Results: A flowchart was created to illustrate the proposed WUI fire protocol with recommendations, and a sample WUI fire educational flyer was also created to support decision-making during WUI fire emergencies. Full results for this project are pending completion of the PDSA cycle. Conclusions: The FireReady OC quality improvement project provides a standardized evidence-based framework for preparedness and protection of the population during WUI fire events in Orange County. Adoption of the proposed protocol will improve the public health response to WUI fires, reduce adverse health impacts of WUI fire smoke and pollutants, and strengthen Orange County’s WUI fire preparedness through continuous quality improvement.

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