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🔥 Wildfire Prevention: We’re In This Together

Wildfires have become an increasingly common threat across British Columbia. While we can’t control nature, we can take meaningful steps to reduce the risk of wildfires and protect our homes, communities, and natural spaces.

🏡 At Home: Be FireSmart

Wildfires are unpredictable, but you can take proactive steps to reduce their impact:

  • Clear debris like dry leaves, pine needles, and branches from your roof, gutters, and yard.
  • Trim trees and shrubs to create defensible space around your home.
  • Store firewood and propane tanks at least 10 metres away from buildings.
  • Use fire-resistant materials for decks, fences, and landscaping.
  • Maintain your lawn—keep grass short and green.

These small actions can make a big difference in slowing or stopping a wildfire from reaching your home.

🏞️ Outdoor Recreation: Prevent Fires Before They Start

Many wildfires are human-caused and entirely preventable. When enjoying the outdoors:

  • Never discard cigarette butts or matches on the ground.
  • Avoid using power tools or off-road vehicles in dry, grassy areas.
  • Keep campfires small, supervised, and fully extinguished.
  • Be cautious with Tiki torches, lanterns, and flammable liquids.
  • Even discarded glass can magnify sunlight and ignite dry vegetation.

🚁 Drones & UAVs: Keep the Skies Clear

Flying drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) near wildfires is illegal and dangerous. Unauthorized aircraft can interfere with firefighting operations and put lives at risk.

  • All wildfires are automatically designated as flight-restricted zones.
  • The restricted area includes a 5-nautical-mile radius and up to 3,000 feet above ground level.
  • Violators can face fines up to $25,000 and 18 months in jail.

🔥 Prescribed Burning & Fuel Management

Prescribed burning is a controlled method used by professionals to reduce wildfire fuel loads and restore natural ecosystems. It’s part of a broader fire and fuel management strategy that balances environmental health, public safety, and land use.

🌐 Learn More

For more information on wildfire prevention and how to FireSmart your property, visit:

Last updated: June 20, 2025

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