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We are a forest interface community so wildfire hazards are significant to us. Any vegetation is combustible and can provide fuel for airborne sparks and embers. Reduce some risks this summer. Here are some safety tips:

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(1)  Remove debris from roofs and gutters and cut back overhanging trees or vegetation.

(2) Remove stored lumber and firewood from under porches and decks.

(3) Remove tall grass, dead and downed woody material from within 10 m of structures.

(4) Remove understory vegetation and dead wood beyond 10 m of structures.

(5) Remove ladder fuels such as branches closer than 2 m to the ground.

(6) Clear vegetation well back from power lines, propane tanks, and other fuel supplies.

(7) Install spark arresters to your chimney and clean your chimney annually.

(8) Locate burn barrels well away from buildings and never leave them unattended.

(9) Close eaves and screen vents including soffits.

(10) Keep lawns watered and mowed.

(11) Consider that smaller windows of thermal pane or tempered glass offer greater protection (

12) Consider that the most fire resistant roofing materials are metal, clay tile, and asphalt shingles

(13) Consider that stucco, metal, brick and concrete offer superior fire resistance.

(14) Keep shovels, rakes, axes, garden hoses, sprinklers and roof ladders to assist in suppressing fires.

(15) Plan for an on-site emergency water supply.

 

For a complete site assessment of your home and site that you can do yourself go to firesmartbc.ca

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P.S. In the event of a chimney fire: throw a bag of water into the stove to create steam in the chimney.