The B.C. government is encouraging residents of wildland-urban interface areas to help safeguard their homes and communities by becoming more "FireSmart".

Partners in Protection Canada publishes "FireSmart: Protecting Your Community from Wildfire", which has been widely distributed in Canada and abroad. The manual offers homeowners, businesses and communities a comprehensive guide to mitigating wildfire risks and making properties more fire-resistant.

Partners in Protection Canada and FireSmart Canada have also launched a new website that includes "how-to" safety articles, landscaping and property maintenance tips, videos and other learning resources. B.C.'s Wildfire Management Branch, along with other Canadian provinces and territories, supported the website's development.

Another key component of the program is the FireSmart Communities Recognition Program, which works with communities throughout the province to certify and maintain their FireSmart status.

B.C. is a leader in encouraging individuals and communities to work with government to deal with potential wildfire threats.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson -

"One of the best ways to prevent large wildfires is to reduce the odds of small fires spreading and getting out of control. The B.C. government supports the Partners in Protection initiative and encourages communities and individuals to learn more about the FireSmart program."

Minister of Justice, responsible for public safety, Shirley Bond -

"With the arrival of hot weather it is important to remind everyone of the need to be 'FireSmart'. This program provides practical tips and information to help mitigate the risk of wildfire."

Quick Facts:

• The Partners in Protection Canada membership consists of over 60 municipal, provincial and national organizations and government agencies with emergency response and land management responsibilities. Business and industry representatives also play an active role in the association.

• The Wildfire Management Branch, the Office of the Fire Commissioner and the First Nations' Emergency Services Society support the proactive efforts of Partners in Protection Canada.

Learn More:

FireSmart Canada: https://www.firesmartcanada.ca/

Wildfire Management Branch (wildfire prevention): http://bcwildfire.ca/Prevention/

Emergency Info BC's (wildfire prevention): http://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/be-firesmart.html

First Nations' Emergency Services Society: http://fness.bc.ca/forest/fire-smart/

Contact:

Fionna Tollovsen
Fire Information Officer
Provincial Wildfire Coordination Centre
250 312-3051