To connect with a Local FireSmart Representative in your area, please email FireSmart@rdek.bc.ca.

The East Kootenay's focus on the FireSmart program continues to go strong. We follow the principles of FireSmart BC and FireSmart Canada, to encourage residents to adopt FireSmart practices and reduce the potential for wildfire impacts on their properties.

FireSmart is a valuable source when preparing for wildfire season. From simple tips for homeowners looking to protect their property to community programs led by local experts, everything you need to protect and prepare your home, neighbourhood, or municipality during wildfire season can be addressed by following FireSmart principles.


NEIGHBOURHOOD 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 HERE.

FireSmart Canada Neighbourhood Feature - Rushmere:


BE A CHAMPION

We are actively seeking Neighbourhood Champions. What's a Neighbourhood Champion, you ask? Well, every good team needs a leader, and that is what a Neighbourhood Champion is: the person who rallies the neighbourhood, who helps organize and communicate about FireSmart activities, and who helps inspire their neighbourhood to join in on the action and reduce wildfire hazards.

The great thing is, a FireSmart Neighbourhood program doesn't have to be for a whole community. It can be for a defined neighbourhood within a community.

Ben Mitchell-Banks is a FireSmart Champion for CastleRock Estates in Invermere. Here, he explains the perimeter treatment that was conducted surrounding their neighbourhood.

To learn more about how to become a community champion, please contact Terry Balan at FireSmart@rdek.bc.ca.

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, simple and easy steps can make a drastic difference. Here are some resources from FireSmart BC to help get you started:


AGRICULTURAL SECTOR RESOURCES:

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.*