Every year, wildfires are getting bigger and more frequent in BC. Stats have shown that 50% of homes burnt during a wildfire are started by embers, which can travel up to 2 km on average. Embers have been known to travel up to 6 km in the right conditions.
By taking steps to reduce the risk of wildfire affecting their properties, homeowners play an important role in wildfire prevention.
FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program
The FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program (WMP) was designed to engage residents in voluntary wildfire mitigation activities by offering a professional home assessment with property-specific recommendations.
Request a Free Home/Property Assessment
Property owners and residents in the District of Hope are eligible for a free FireSmart assessment.
The FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program was designed to engage residents in voluntary wildfire mitigation activities by offering a professional home assessment with property-specific recommendations.
A FireSmart Property Assessment provides residents with:
- An in-depth, on-site assessment conducted by experienced fire professionals.
- An opportunity for property owners to identify mitigation actions unique to their property.
- A detailed follow-up report with customized mitigation actions designed to measurably reduce the wildfire risk to your property.
- An opportunity to earn FireSmart acknowledgement for your mitigation achievements through a certificate. The certificate is given upon successful completion of required mitigation actions and an on-site follow-up inspection.
- A mitigation certification that can be shared with participating insurance providers to showcase mitigation activities and may be eligible for insurance incentives or discounts. Please note: FireSmart does not share the assessment or any details of the assessment with the insurance industry.
- FireSmart Home signage for their property (upon successful completion of required mitigation actions and an on-site follow-up inspection).
Complete this form to request your free home assessment by one of our Wildfire Mitigation Specialists.
FireSmart Rebate Program
If you complete any of your FireSmart assessment recommendations, you are eligible for a rebate of 50% of your expenses incurred, up to $1000, (total rebate of $500).
FireSmart rebate program qualifications:
- Schedule a FireSmart home assessment with our Wildfire Mitigation Specialists who will answer your questions and provide you with a list of specific recommendations for your property.
- Complete one or more of the recommendations and take before and after photos to show your FireSmart activities.
- Complete a FireSmart rebate form provided during your property assessment. Include receipts for supplies, and a record of your hours along with before and after photos. Email the completed form to firesmart@hope.ca or submit the online form.
- Your labour is valued at $32 per hour for each eligible FireSmart activity you complete. A limited number of rebates are available and are limited to 50% of the total cost up to a maximum of $1000.
Request a Neighbourhood Wildfire Hazard Assessment
Your neighbourhood can request a free Neighbourhood Wildfire Hazard Assessment, where a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist looks at general neighbourhood wildfire risks and provides recommendations in a customized report.
Email firesmart@hope.ca to request a Neighbourhood Wildfire Hazard Assessment.
Get FireSmart at Home
FireSmart principles are designed to mitigate a home’s vulnerability to wildfire. Homes ignite due to the condition of the home and everything that surrounds it, up to 100 metres from the foundation – this is called the Home Ignition Zone.
Learn more about the Home Ignition Zone and how you can take proactive action on your property to reduce wildfire risks.
The Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan
The District of Hope, in collaboration with the public, community stakeholders, and neighboring First Nation partners, has completed its Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (CWRP).
Supported by the Union of BC Municipalities and the provincial government, this plan identifies local wildfire risks and outlines actions to reduce those risks and enhance community safety.
Wildfire resiliency means understanding the realities of living in a forested area, taking proactive steps to protect lives and property, and being ready to respond when needed.
The CWRP will guide our FireSmart program efforts through to March 2030, helping us build a safer, more resilient community.
Click HERE to view or download the completed plan.
Resources
District of Hope FireSmart
604-869-5671
firesmart@hope.ca
