FireSmart your property
Help reduce the risk of wildfire affecting your property. FireSmart is a program developed by Partners in Protection that outlines ways individuals can help protect their property from wildfire. To pick up a copy of the Home Owners FireSmart manual, visit Fire Station #1 or #4.
Download a structure and site hazard assessment form.
Homeowners can FireSmart their property in three easy phases.
Phase 1.
- Contact your utility company if trees or branches are not clear of power lines.
- Always keep a watchful eye on fire pits and burn barrels when they are in use.
- Ensure your roof is free of needles and leaves, and there are no overhanging trees or branches that can catch on fire.
- Make sure your chimney is up to code and has a spark arresting screen installed.
- Remove all long grass, shrubs, logs, branches, twigs and needles within 10 metres of your home.
- Have a nearby water supply for emergencies.
- Store firewood a minimum of 10 metres from any structures.
Phase 2.
- Have your address or lot number clearly visible for quick identification by Emergency Services.
- Mow and regularly water the grass within 10 metres of buildings.
- Keep shovels, rakes, axes, garden hoses, sprinklers and ladders available to assist in protecting homes from wildfires.
- Prune the first two metres of branches on tree trunks.
- Remove any vegetation near power lines, propane tanks and other fuel supplies.
- Plant fire resistant trees like aspen, birch or poplar instead of spruce and pine.
- Close in any exposed eaves, vents and soffits on your home.
Phase 3.
- Move propane tanks at least 10 metres away from any structure.
- Sheath the underside of balconies, decks and crawlspaces with flame-resistant materials.
- Keep trees at least three metres away from either side of your driveway.
- Install tempered or thermal windows that are at least double pane to prevent thermal transfer into your home.
- Provide emergency access to and from your property.
- Choose less flammable finishes for your home like stucco, metal, brick or concrete instead of wood or vinyl.
- Use only Class A, B or C rated fire resistant roofing materials.
Further information
emergencyservices@strathcona.ab.ca
780-449-9651
Last updated: Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Page ID: 2331
