The City of Campbell River Fire Department is conducting free FireSmart Home Assessments to help people better protect their homes and properties from wildfire.

“Neighbourhoods, where residents have taken steps to reduce their vulnerability to wildfire, have a greater chance of surviving a wildfire without the intervention of the Fire Department,” says Shawn Hall, City FireSmart Coordinator.

“On average, there are approximately 1,500 wildfires in BC every year, and the frequency and severity of wildfires are expected to worsen. The FireSmart program helps reduce wildfire risks to homes, neighbourhoods, critical infrastructure, and vital natural resources. The best part is, it’s easy to do.”

With about 1500 wildfires in BC every year, Hall says the program helps risks to homes, neighbourhoods, critical infrastructure, and vital natural resources.

The program allows for a tour of the outside of residents’ homes with any vulnerabilities to wildfire to be explored - followed by a summary of recommendations.

Homeowners can then work to complete some, or all, of the recommendations and may be eligible for rebates of 50% of the cost, up to $1,000.

The City says it’s also working with neighbouring First Nations to get them on board with the program.

Campbell River Mayor Kermit Dahl is recognizing residents in the Treeland Ridge neighbourhood, who have taken steps to be recognized as a FireSmart Neighbourhood; a program developed to officially recognize neighbourhoods that have taken critical steps to become more wildfire resilient.

Learn more at Campbell River Firesmart.

To book your free assessment, email firesmart@campbellriver.ca or call the City Fire Department at 250-286-6266.