Forest fire risk assessment using hotspot analysis in GIS

Background: Present intensifying forest fire incidents are becoming a major concern as they pose threats to the environment, economy and human’s safety. This paper aims to identify forest fire hotspots using advanced hotspot analysis in the Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and suggest appropriate preventive measures. Objective: Brunei Darussalam is one of the Southeast Asian countries that is significantly affected by the increase in forest fire incidents in this region. Brunei Muara is the worst-hit district by forest fire in Brunei Darussalam, and hence it was selected as a case study for this research. Results and Conclusion: This research identified and prioritized forest fire hotspots, highlighted the shortage of fire stations within the identified hotspots and suggested the suitable locations for new fire stations in Brunei Muara district.