Expert on wildfire mitigation will share practical advice and available rebates
Earlier this year, the devastating Los Angeles wildfires destroyed more than 10,000 homes in just a few days.
Some houses, however, remained almost perfectly intact. Why? Luck is a component, but preparation can go a long way to reduce risk. You can take simple, cost-effective steps to lessen the chances your home will burn in the event of a wildfire.
Central Saanich’s Emergency Program is hosting a free workshop for its residents about wildfire preparedness. Ryan Vantreight, the District’s FireSmart Coordinator and Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, will walk through how to protect your home, what rebates are available, and more.
“The wildfire in Sooke last year reminded us that this can happen here. The FireSmart program is valuable because you see your home through the eyes of an experienced firefighter,” said Mayor Ryan Windsor. “It’s free and easy to book a one-hour assessment. You don’t have to follow their advice, but knowledge is power. You’ll have good information to protect your home, loved ones and neighbours.”
FireSmart is a provincial initiative aimed at reducing the risk of wildfire damage to our homes, communities, and forests. Participating communities like Central Saanich, Sooke, Metchosin, Langford, View Royal, and North Saanich all offer $1000 rebates as part of their FireSmart Programs.
“The risk of wildfire continues to rise each year,” said Ryan Vantreight, FireSmart Coordinator for Central Saanich. “The good news is, there are many steps you can take to reduce your risk. In this hands-on workshop, residents will get the information they need to make a real impact for their homes.”
The workshop will include valuable tips about how to reduce connective fuel that can carry a fire directly to your home, as well as fuel that embers can interact with on your home, like roof and gutter debris or combustible sun shades and planters.
Registration is required for the free FireSmart Your Home workshop. There is space for 50 people. Refreshments will be provided.
Workshop: FireSmart Your Home
Date: Thursday, March 6, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Location: Central Saanich Fire Station 1, 1512 Keating Cross Road
Register: CSaanich.ca/GetPrepared
More information: Central Saanich residents can reserve your workshop spot(s) or book a free, confidential FireSmart home assessment at CSFiresmart.ca or by calling 250.415.8066 or emailing FireSmart@csaanich.ca