Apply FireSmartTM principles at home to help protect your family and community from wildland fires.
That can spell danger for our homes and communities – but there are steps we can take to protect them.
We know that most of the homes that are damaged or destroyed during a wildland fire is because of falling embers (not the advancing flame front). These burning pieces of debris can blow kilometres ahead of a wildland fire and ignite materials on or near your home. Falling embers may land on fuels adjacent to your home, such as flammable patio furniture, wood piles, and dense vegetation like shrubs and flower beds. With enough fuel available, it doesn’t take long before an ember becomes a flame.
There are many actions you can take at home and in your community to reduce your risk of being impacted by wildland fire
The good news! By applying FireSmartTM principles where you live, work, and play, you can better protect your family and your neighbours.
The Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) is the area within 30 metres of your home and other structures like sheds and outbuildings. It is made up of three priority areas: The Immediate Zone, Intermediate Zone, and Extended Zone. The HIZ shows how you can minimize your home’s vulnerability to wildland fire, starting with the most vulnerable area, the Immediate Zone, and working your way outward.
Often, the Home Ignition Zone will overlap with your neighbours. This is why a community approach is important to consider.
Chat with your neighbours about your concerns and how FireSmart principles can help reduce your shared wildland fire risk. Visit FireSmartCanada.ca for resources on how start your journey. Download the ‘FireSmart Begins at Home’ app on Google Play or the App Store to take a self guided assessment to learn what specific actions you can take to reduce your risk.
We know that home renovations and upgrades can be costly and time-consuming. However, FireSmart principles can help you focus on what is realistic for you and your family or community to achieve. Incorporate FireSmart principles into your long-term renovation plans and regular yard work to reduce your risk of damage from wildland fire.
With our changing climate it is easy to become overwhelmed.
By implementing FireSmart principles into your regular yard work routine, you can make a big difference in reducing your wildland fire risk. Measures taken within the first 1.5 metres of your home will have the biggest impact.
Please don’t feed the wildfires! Visit FireSmartCanada.ca to begin your FireSmart journey.
