Castlegar Offering Free FireSmart Assessments
By City of Castlegar
The City of Castlegar is partnering with the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) to offer free, FireSmart assessments to provide residents with recommendations on how they can lower the risk of damage to their homes in the event of a fire.
The RDCK’s Regional FireSmart Program provides a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist who visits homes and provides a detailed report, including specific mitigation actions and recommendations, to help protect homes and measurably reduce wildfire risks to properties. Many of these actions cost very little and can significantly reduce fire dangers. Others require long-term planning.
“We’re hoping to increase participation in this free program,’ says Sam Lattanzio, City of Castlegar Fire Chief. “Taking simple, FireSmart actions on your property will reduce the risk of wildfire to your home and neighbourhood and helps firefighters to defend your home.”
If participants complete the mitigation actions, a FireSmart Certificate is issued which can be shared with insurance providers to potentially reduce rates. FireSmart assessments are for educational purposes only and there is no obligation to complete any of the recommendations. These comprehensive reports are only supplied to the home owner and will not be shared with, or distributed to, any other entity.
Apply now to receive your free assessment at castlegar.ca/firesmart. Assessments will be available until mid-October.
The Specialists are fire and forestry professionals specially trained to recognize wildfire risks to homes and properties. All Specialists are trained in new COVID-19 procedures and will practice social distancing while completing the assessments.
The City of Castlegar is a service centre in the West Kootenay. The diversified and growing economy is focused on the forestry, energy and mining sectors in the valley, and commercial services in the City. Quality of life features backcountry adventure and an increasingly dynamic urban culture, including the Millennium Park & Ponds and Sculpture Walk.
Key Facts
- In 2018, 25 residents participated in the program.
- In 2019, 30 residents participated in the program, including 2 neighbourhoods seeking FireSmart Community designation.
- In 2020, the Program will have an expanded focus on working with developers, builders, landscapers and suppliers to educate and encourage FireSmart development.
- The City of Castlegar has community well-being and safety as a pillar of its Strategic Plan. This includes updating its Community Wildfire Plan and providing resources to individual properties to help prepare for wildfires.
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