FireSmart BC Launches New Youth Education Program

FireSmart BC has launched new teaching resources geared toward educators and students.

“As we reflect on the devastating wildfire season this year, it becomes increasingly evident that wildfire education is not an option, but a necessity,” said Rachel Woodhurst, FireSmart BC Program Lead.

“One of the best ways to be FireSmart is to start young. By equipping teachers with tools to educate the next generation, we can collectively work towards creating safer and better prepared communities across BC.

The FireSmart BC Education Program offers free lesson plans and materials that introduce students to FireSmart concepts, equipping educators, and students in grades K-6 with essential knowledge in fire resiliency. Grade 7-12 materials will be launched in October.

The interactive resources are aligned with the BC school curriculum to incorporate within existing lesson plans.

Designed to make learning fun, the program will empower youth to become champions of fire safety in their communities. Education themes include safety, fire science, ecosystem stewardship, and wildfire mitigation and prevention.

Grades K-1 will learn the basics, including identifying the seasons when wildfire is most likely to occur and determining which items around a home are likely to burn, while the older students get info on fire safety planning at home and eventually in the community.

View the lesson plans at FireSmart BC.