Is seeing believing? Risk perception, preparedness and anticipated response of citizens in Sweden

Wildfire risk is increasing worldwide as changes in precipitation and temperature create favorable conditions for wildfire ignition and spread. Wildfire events have become more frequent even in regions with a short historical record of wildfires. In such contexts, scientists and policymakers often assume low public risk perception due to limited prior experience. The risk perception of citizens is well connected to the way they prepare and respond. However, empirical evidence on how residents in these regions perceive wildfire risk, prepare for it, and anticipate their response remains scarce. This study presents results from a survey conducted in Sweden, focusing on risk perception, actual preparedness and willingness to prepare, and anticipated response to a potential wildfire event. The study highlights the importance of removing existing barriers, leveraging institutional trust, and promoting preparedness as a shared responsibility between authorities and local communities to strengthen wildfire resilience. Knowledge regarding the level of risk perception and public willingness to prepare as well as their drivers can lead to targeted strategies, solutions and tools to increase awareness and resilience and to support disaster risk reduction.