Firesmart
Decrease the risk and danger to your property with informed choices and solutions that can be simple and cost effective.
Increase resilience and recovery with strategic planning and management of your property, neighborhood and community.
Wildfires are a natural part of the cycles of regeneration and can be controlled under safe conditions to reduce and remove fire fuel. However we are seeing an increase of natural unpredictable fires, that have ravaged nearby communities with ferocity and damage.
We can limit risk and severity with a proactive approach that includes landscaping with hardscapes, regular maintenance, clearance zones where debris and stored flammable goods are removed, and adopting FireSmart approaches and recommendations.
Ignition Zones
Immediate Zone: 0-1.5 meter perimeter around structure: use non-combustible material, clear are of debris and vegetation, and keep gutters, vents and eaves clean.
Intermediate: 1.5-10 meters: keep grasses mowed below 10 cms, use fire resistant plants with spacing, prune trees and keep shrubs low, use decorative rock and other fireproof materials. Consider xeriscaping. Keep pathways, entrances and approaches clear of debris.
Extended: 10-30 meters: this area is approached to reduce intensity of the fire. Remove thin dead, damaged and dense tree growth, and remove debris and flammable material. Ensure fire resistant natural growth ( aspen and poplar in AB). Work with neighbors and the community and experts for an approach that can be achieved over time, depending on costs.
