Wildfire is a more recent and relevant concern for BC residents.

• Wildfires almost always begin unnoticed.
• They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes.
• Nearly 1/3 of all fires are detected and reported by the general public.
  
  
• More and more of us have homes in woodland settings.
• In or near forests, rural areas, or remote mountain sites.
• These homes face the very real danger of wildfire.
  
  
• Four out of every five forest fires are started by people.
  
  
• The other major cause of forest fires is lightning.

Kelowna Fires of 2003

• 340 homes burned in Kelowna.
• Of the 340, only 40 were as a result of direct flame contact.
• The remaining 300 were ignited by large embers being carried by prevailing winds into areas well away from the main fire - landing on the roof and catching homes on fire, which in turn ignited neighbouring homes.
  
  
• Imagine a small campfire.
• Sparks from that fire will burn your clothes several feet away.
• Now imagine that fire is 1000 times larger.
• Sparks are now large chunks of debris.

How can we prepare for wildfires?

• There are steps you can take to,
• reduce the chance of your home or cabin catching fire or
• lessen the damage from a nearby wildfire.

Wild Fire Links

• www.bcwildfire.ca
• www.psss.gov.bc.ca