We have three methodologies to prevent or reduce fire:

• active measures that becomes operative when the fire is detected
• passive measures that are integrated in buildings
• mandatory measures to prevent fire from breaking out or growing too large

 Parts of the Norwegian town Røros is proteced through a combination of active, passive and mandatory measures.
The central blocks of houses are monitored by camera surveillance. In addition, the houses are equipped with detectors in form of fusible wires, where the signals are transmitted directly to the fire station. It is also arranged for water supply to water mist systems installed in inaccessible parts of the buildings. These systems are available for the fire brigade to connect to from the outside, while the pipes ordinarily are dry.

Densely built wooden houses constitute a particular challenge when it comes to fire safety. A combination of all kinds of measures is required:

• Fire barriers must be intact
• Facade sprinkler system must be considered. Indoor sprinkler system must be installed.
• Electrical installations must be inspected and upgraded
• Cavities that may spread fire must have particular protection
• Residents of the premises must be motivated and trained in preventive fire protection and to behave correctly in case of fire

It is often not just one measure that will restrict a fire from evolving. None of the three measures above are necessarily mandatory. It is only when a building is reconstructed and when the use of the building is changed that the building authorities will be involved. Today the owners are responsible for fulfilling the buildings basic requirements to fire safety, but it is no ones responsibility to preserve the wooden houses for the future. The politicians have to prepare the way for preservation of old wooden houses and their need for special protection.