FireSmart BC
FireSmart™ in the City of Courtenay
British Columbia is experiencing a sustained increase in extreme wildfire behaviour and fire events particularly in the wildland-urban interface. More human activity and development is taking place in and around forests, creating greater consequences for the health and safety of citizens and visitors. Fire size and severity are increasing, and fire seasons are becoming longer. FireSmart is based on the premise of shared responsibility and on promoting the integration and collaboration of wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts. These actions can be taken at home and at your workplace to make our community more resilient to fire.
It’s important to remember that even though a large portion of our community is located the urban environment, we are still susceptible to wildfire and structure to structure ignition. When a fire starts it can cast embers up to two kilometres ahead, by wind or energy from the fire. Embers can ignite materials on or near your home or workplace, causing severe damage or a total loss.
With the goal of furthering public safety, the Courtenay Fire Department has joined forces with K'ómoks First Nation, FNESS, CVEP, Cumberland Fire Department, Comox Fire Rescue, Campbell River Fire Department, Oyster River Fire Department, The Comox Valley Regional District and four regional district fire departments. The groups aim is to create a regional approach in the development of wildfire resiliency within our community's.
The group has taken advantage of a Provincial Government Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) grant intended to reduce the risk of wildfires and mitigate impacts on BC communities.
Is your home and property prepared for wildfire? With temperatures on the rise, the risk of wildfire increases. Simple steps can be taken to ensure your property and neighbourhood are as resilient as possible in the event of wildfire.
To find out more information about FireSmart visit FireSmart101 or FireSmart.
If you would like to have a Courtenay Fire Department FireSmart Representative attend your home to provide a free home assessment, and discover ways to make your home more resilient to fire, contact the Courtenay Fire Department at 250 334 2513
Assessments are free of charge and act only as recommendations.
Keep your family, friends and community prepared with these resources:
Firesmart Home Development Guide
FireSmart Last Minute Evacuation Checklist