Think FireSmart
By taking action and creating a FireSmart property, you will dramatically increase the resistance of your home and property to damage caused by wildfire. The good news is, it’s surprisingly easy to do.
The FireSmart BC Homeowner’s Manual recommends actions starting from the home and progressing outwards. Changes made to the areas closest to the home, and your home itself, have the greatest potential to reduce the risk of wildfire damage.
https://firesmartbc.ca/resource/tips-to-firesmart-your-home/
| What is the FireSmart program? |
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The FireSmart program is a set of practices and initiatives aimed at reducing the risk and impact of wildfires near homes, communities, and in wildland areas. FireSmart involves changing how we collectively manage wildfire risks, plan for emergencies, and take preventative measures at home, in our neighbourhoods, and in our communities. FireSmart Canada serves as the overarching national body, while FireSmart BC focuses specifically on the unique landscape and wildfire challenges of British Columbia. |
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What is the CRD’s FireSmart Program for 2024? |
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The Cariboo Regional District has a region-wide education program, which is facilitated by a FireSmart educator. In addition to this educational initiative, the district is promoting vegetation management among residential property owners by waiving the tipping fees for off-site disposal of vegetative debris. This incentive is specifically designed for homeowners and around areas included in the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, covering Lac La Hache, 108 Mile Ranch, and Lone Butte. |
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What is the role of your FireSmart educator this year, and how can I contact them? |
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This year, our FireSmart educator is primarily focused on disseminating FireSmart education emphasizing FireSmart practices and property protection strategies. They will be actively engaging with residents by attending open houses and various events, distributing educational resources, and facilitating discussions about wildfire mitigation. If you're interested in connecting with our FireSmart educator or have an upcoming community event where their presence would be beneficial, please reach out to our FireSmart Educator. |
| Do you offer FireSmart Assessments and Rebates? |
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FireSmart Assessments and Rebates are not available this year. We welcome your feedback and inquiries which will help us design the program for future years. |
| How do I get started on making my neighbourhood a FireSmart Neighbourhood? |
| If you have a neighborhood committee or working group currently engaged in FireSmart initiatives within your neighbourhood, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are eager to hear about your efforts and collaborate where possible. |
The FireSmart BC Home Ignition Zone poster recommends creating a non-combustible zone around your home and any attachments (such as decks) and identifies three zones to reduce the risk of fire.
- Immediate Zone (0 m to 1.5 m): The Immediate Zone is a non-combustible area that starts at the house and extends to a 1.5 metre perimeter around the home and attached structures, including decks. Choose non-combustible building materials and vegetation.
- Intermediate Zone (1.5 m to 10 m): This area should be fire-resistant and free of combustible materials that could easily ignite.
- Extended Zone (10 m to 30 m): In this area, thin and prune evergreen trees to reduce fire hazards. Regularly clean up accumulations of fallen branches, dry grass and needles from the ground to eliminate potential surface fuels.
Resources to get you started
FireSmarting your property can be easy. And, every action you take to remove a potential hazard, increases your property's resilience to wildfire. The best part is, that simple and easy steps can make a drastic difference. Here are some resources from FireSmart BC to help get you started:
- Homeowner's Guide to FireSmarting Your Property
- FireSmart BC Landscaping Guide
- Wildfire Preparedness Guide
- Home Ignition Zone Self Assessment | FireSmart BC
Neigbourhood Recognition Program
FireSmart homes and neighbourhoods allow firefighters to concentrate on fighting the wildfire, which ultimately saves more homes and lives. Neighbourhoods in which residents take steps to reduce their vulnerability have a greater chance of surviving a wildfire without the intervention of the fire department.
Learn more about the Neighbourhood Recognition Program
Farm/ Ranch Wildfire Preparedness
Producers face unique challenges from wildfire. Use the Farm/Ranch Wildfire Plan Guide and Workbook to develop a preparedness plan that’s customized for your specific operational needs.
Agricultural Sector Resources
- BC Farm/Ranch Wildfire Plan Guide (Climate Action Initiative/Investment Agriculture Foundation BC)
- The Farm/Ranch Wildfire Plan Guide/Workbook (FireSmart BC)
There will be lots more to come in the days and weeks ahead, so please check back often!
*FireSmart, Intelli-feu and other associated Marks are trademarks of Partners in Protection Association.*