Residents are encouraged by the Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services to utilize the FireSmart BC resources to learn how to protect their property from wildfire risks and complete a self-guided home assessment.
In Cranbrook, our weather patterns and surrounding forests contribute to wildfire risks.
While the fire department prepares, the Cranbrook Fire Chief says he has seen firsthand that the condition of a property can make a meaningful difference in how fires behave in a neighbourhood.
“Property maintenance and small, consistent actions add up. We’re asking residents to take a look at their own properties, use the FireSmart tools that are available, and take those steps where they can. If we each do our part, we put our community in a much stronger position,” says Chief Scott Driver, Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services.
Small actions like clearing combustible materials away from structures, maintaining vegetation, and keeping roofs and gutters free of debris can significantly reduce the risk of a fire spreading from one property to another.
With limitations in provincial FireSmart funding, the transition toward having FireSmart staff available to complete in-person property assessments has slowed down.
Funding decisions for 2026 are expected to be made later in the summer.
The City has emphasized in recent years that wildfire resilience depends on all of us.
“FireSmart is one of the most important steps we can take as community members to reduce wildfire risk. Our crews will always be ready to respond, but the reality is that protecting homes and neighbourhoods often starts well before an emergency,” says Chief Scott Driver, Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services.
The fire department will continue to focus on preparedness, response, and public education.
To review the FireSmart BC materials and complete a home assessment, click here.
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