RDNO encourages people to FireSmart homes as wildfires continue to burn

Aug 4, 2023 | 3:56 PM

With fires burning throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre and no end in sight for the dry weather, area residents are being encouraged to FireSmart their properties.

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) urges people take preventative actions to protect ones property, particularly ahead of long weekends and out-of-town vacations.

“The potential impact of firebrands, airborne embers from wildfires, cannot be underestimated. These embers can travel substantial distances, posing ignition risks to homes far from the fire’s epicenter,” Bill Wacey, BX-Swan Lake Fire Rescue Chief, said in a release.

“By adhering to FireSmart practices, we have the power to enhance our wildfire resilience and preserve our beloved Okanagan way of life.”

To minimize the risk of embers igniting people’s properties, the RDNO advises people to undertake five preventative actions.

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Ensure all doors and windows are locked and sealed when leaving the house or a structure such as a garage or shed
Remove flammable materials from outside the homes, including welcome mats and rugs on the doorstep
Maintain clean gutters and roofs so embers do not have any fuels to ignite
Safely store gasoline, propane tanks, firewood, and other flammable materials away from the home
Incorporate wildfire readiness into an emergency plan by designating a meeting spot, sharing emergency contacts, and establishing communication strategies.

“While summer progresses, our commitment to FireSmart practices must remain paramount. It’s never too late to take proactive steps to safeguard our homes and update our going-away-checklists to defend against firebrands,” Wacey stated.

There are other preventative measures people can take around their properties to reduce the risk of a fire sparking and spreading, including managing the lawn and garden, cleaning under the deck, and not storing items against the side of the house. Other FireSmart tips can be found online here.

by Liam Verster

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