Wildfire is a natural part of life in our region—but there’s a lot you can do to reduce your risk. FireSmart is about simple, practical steps you can take to make your home and yard more resistant to wildfire.
This page helps you:
Understand wildfire risk around your home
Learn what changes make the biggest difference
Access resources
The first 10 metres around your home matter most.
Windblown embers can ignite decks, dry grass, firewood piles, and more—even if the fire is still far away.
Keep a 1.5 metre non-combustible zone around your home and deck
Regularly clean gutters, roofs, and under decks
Choose fire-resistant plants and materials near your home
Move firewood piles at least 10 metres away
Use gravel mulch instead of bark mulch within 10 metres of your house
Download guides to help you complete a FireSmart yard assessment.
Download the FireSmart Begins at Home Guide for full checklists and tips.
Even a beautiful yard can help stop wildfire if it’s planned right. FireSmart landscaping reduces fuel that helps fire travel.
Tree & Yard Tips:
Prune branches 2 metres off the ground
Space coniferous trees (like spruce or pine) at least 3 metres apart
Avoid highly flammable plants like cedar, juniper, or tall dry grasses near buildings
Mow grass regularly and trim back overgrown areas
Remove dry needles and branches from under shrubs and trees
Keep basic fire tools (shovel, hose, rake) on hand
Burn barrels must have wire mesh screens and be clear of vegetation
Fire pits must follow Municipal permit rules
Store gas, firewood, and flammable items well away from your home
If you have a large yard or property:
Focus first on the Immediate Zone (0–1.5 m from your home)
Then work outward to the Intermediate (1.5–10 m) and Extended Zone (10–30 m)
Beyond 30 m, thinning, pruning, and fuel reduction still help reduce wildfire intensity
If your home is on a slope, fire can move uphill faster. That makes spacing and clearing even more important.