FireSmart Program

 

What is FireSmart?

FireSmart is the Canadian standard recognized by all provinces and territories based on National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.

FireSmart BC is a provincial program committed to reducing the negative impacts of wildfire. The program is based on scientific research that shows that doing simple tasks around where you live can make your property more resilient to wildfire.

Wildfires are growing in frequency, scale, and severity. In 2023, BC experienced 2,252 wildfires and 92% of people believe that wildfires are one of the most important issues facing BC. We must be more proactive to adapt to a world with more wildfires. Research shows that taking steps to FireSmart your property is one of the most effective ways to help defend against wildfire. Wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. When communities work together, it can make a big difference in reducing wildfire risk.

Video: It’s Time to Get FireSmart About Wildfires In BC

 Click the link below to sign up!!

Request a Free FireSmart Home Assessment

Book a FREE on-site home assessment to receive personalized recommendations on how to make your home and property more resilient to wildfire.

If your property is located in an area identified as having higher wildfire risk, a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist (WMS) will complete the assessment.

If your home is located within the urban containment boundary, where wildfire risk is generally lower, a Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessment will be completed by Fire Department staff. 

In both cases trained Fire Prevention Officers will visit your property, review conditions around your home, and provide practial recommendations to help reduce the risk of wildfire spread.

Click the link below to request a FREE Home Assessment:
Get a FREE Home Assessment

How to Make Your Home FireSmart

For a wildfire to ignite and grow, it needs fuel such as trees, grass, or other vegetation.

Taking action to FireSmart your property by removing flammable materials and vegetation around your property and preventing embers from accumulating will decrease the risk of wildfire to your home.

Here are a few examples of FireSmart activities:

  • Request a FireSmart Assessment of your property.
  • Ensure gutters and roofs are well maintained and clear of leaves and debris.
  • Install 3-millimetre non-combustible wire mesh on exterior vents.
  • Keep decks and balconies clear of leaves and debris.
  • Keep grass cut below 10 centimetres.
  • Rake up and remove dried needles and leaves.
  • Plant fire-resistant plants using the Landscaping Guide.
  • Move firewood, lumber and propane tanks 10-30 meters from your home.
  • Remove lower branches on trees up to 2 meters.
  • Space evergreen trees at least 3 meters apart.

For more tips, check out the FireSmart Begins at Home Guide.

Video: The Home Ignition Zone

How to Prepare for Wildfire

Learn more about preparing for wildfire.

Video: FireSmart West Kelowna Case Study

 

Learn more about how to check every box when preparing for wildfire.

Fire Danger Rating

Know what the current fire danger rating is and follow bans on fires.

Low: Fires may start easily and spread quickly but there will be minimal involvement of deeper fuel layers or larger fuels.

Moderate: Forest fuels are drying and there is an increased risk of surface fires starting. Carry out any forest activities with caution.

High: Forest fuels are very dry, and the fire risk is serious. New fires may start easily, burn vigorously, and challenge fire suppression efforts. Extreme caution must be used in any forest activities. Open burning and industrial activities may be restricted.

Extreme: Extremely dry forest fuels and the fire risk is very serious. New fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire suppression efforts. General forest activities may be restricted, including open burning, industrial activities and campfires.

Report Wildfires

If you see the fire, Dial 911 and report it or call *5555 from a cell phone.

Additional Resources

Contact Us

For more information on the Saanich FireSmart Program contact:

Email: fireprevention@saanich.ca
Phone: 250-475-5500