As we flow through Phase III of BC’s Restart Plan, fortunately many of our beloved campgrounds and provincial parks have reopened, and dry warm temperatures are on the rise. On the downside, this sparks an increase in wildfire risk.

To prepare your home and yard for fire season, here’s a quick checklist informed by the FireSmart BC Homeowner Manual. 

Safeguard your roof.

The number one cause of structure losses during wildfires is wooden shake roofs. When embers land on your roof, they can easily ignite a fire and spread quickly.

If you are planning to build a new roof, try to ensure it is made from fire-resistant materials such as metal, slate, tile, or asphalt shingles. Keep your roof and gutters clear of overhanging branches, dead leaves, dry brush, twigs, needles, and other debris.

Designate priority zones.

A priority zone is an area to help keep flames away from your house while providing access to firefighters. If possible, try to maintain 10 metres around your home to reduce the chance of a wildfire spreading onto your property. 

☐ Remove flammable vegetation or use fire-resistant plants such as broad-leaf deciduous trees, low shrubs, ferns or annuals. Ideally, space plants at least 3 metres apart.

☐ Trim or remove trees (if bylaws permit) to reduce the chance of fire spreading from tree to tree.

☐ Prune trees so the lowest branches are at least two metres above the ground.

☐ Remove stacks of wood and piles of debris from around your home and store them at a safe distance (10 to 30 metres away when possible).

Protect the exterior of your home.

During a wildfire, windows may break and allow the fire to travel into your home. If time allows, the most effective fire protection is achieved by covering openings to your home including vents, windows and other openings such as attic accesses with solid plywood shutters. 

☐ Be aware that overhanging decks will trap heat underneath, igniting the deck and siding. Check materials stored under the deck and ensure they are non-flammable.

☐ When possible, replace exertion finishes on your home with non-combustible materials such as stucco, metal, brick, or cement. This applies to skirting as well.

☐ Have pre-cut solid plywood shutters ready to fit over vents, windows, and other openings, and stored in an accessible location.

☐ If building a new deck, go for non-flammable sheathing and heavy support timbers.

☐ Ensure propane and natural gas tanks are located at least 10 metres from buildings and vegetation has been cleared within three metres of the tank.

Firewood and waste burning.

Many wildfires have been caused by careless burning. Inside the home, burning wood in a fireplace can start a wildfire if sparks ignite your roof. If you burn, do it safely.

☐ Make sure an approved spark arrestor has been installed on your chimney.

☐ If you have a fire pit, keep it away from any structures and flammable vegetation.

☐ When burning in your barrel (if permitted by local bylaws), ensure:

• Your barrel is in good condition.

• The ground is free of debris three metres or more around the barrel.

• You have steel rods or pipes holding the burning material up from the bottom of the barrel.

• A mesh screen (with openings no larger than seven millimetres) has been placed on top of the barrel.

• After burning, ensure you have placed the ashes in a metal container, soaked with water, and then let them sit for two to three days before disposing of.

In light of COVID-19, there are many new provincial restrictions on burning. Contact your local fire department for more info on what fires are currently permitted.

If you have any questions on fire tips or fire and smoke restoration services, connect with us by phone at 604.886.5949 (Emergency 24/7 Service Line).