Quantifying livelihood vulnerability to wildland fires in the United States is challenging because of the need to systematically integrate multidimensional variables into its analysis. We aim to measure wildfire threats amongst humans and their physical and social environment by developing a framework to calculate the livelihood vulnerability index (LVI) for the top 14 American states most recently exposed to wildfires. The LVI is computed by assessing each state’s contributing factors (exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity) to wildfire events. These contributing factors are determined through a set of indicator variables that are categorized into corresponding groups to produce an LVI framework. The framework is validated by performing a principal component analysis (PCA), ensuring that each selected indicator variable corresponds to the correct contributing factor. Our results indicate that Arizona and New Mexico experience the greatest livelihood vulnerability. In contrast, California, Florida, and Texas experience the least livelihood vulnerability. While California has one of the highest exposures and sensitivity to wildfires, results indicate that it has a relatively high adaptive capacity, in comparison to the other states, suggesting it has measures in place to withstand these vulnerabilities. These results are critical to wildfire managers, government, policymakers, and research scientists for identifying and providing better resiliency and adaptation measures to support states that are most vulnerable to wildfires.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to validate the association between dental screenings and follow-up care to support the level of awareness of dental hygiene services available in the community by increasing access to care and determine patients’ knowledge of dental insurance status. Methods: A first-time dental screening was conducted, and complimentary care was provided for those who followed through with dental hygiene care at the clinic. Survey questionnaires were administered to participants following screening and clinic care. Results: Ten participants of the 50 screened received care at the clinic. Less than half of those screened (41 %) had a dental visit over a year ago. Most participants were not aware of the low-cost dental services available. Twenty percent (20%) of participants did not know if they had dental insurance coverage. Conclusions: Dental screening participants are likely to schedule an appointment for dental services. Raising awareness of low-cost dental care services available in the community by offering screenings at local events may increase access to care.

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