Book excerpt: A summary of four studies which were aimed at developing a theoretical and practical understanding of homeowners¿ attitudes and behaviors in the wildland-urban interface in relation to the threat from wildland fires. The studies focused on methods that measured: (1) value orientations (patterns of basic beliefs) toward natural processes; (2) attitudes toward wildland fire policies; and (3) behavioral intentions to adopt defensible space activities or support agency policies and actions. This report presents the key findings from these studies, highlights the practical consequences of adopting a theory-based approach to understanding wildland fire management in urbanized areas, and suggests strategies for successful wildfire-prevention education programs. Illustrations.