West Vancouverites reminded to undertake fire prevention efforts amid dry conditions

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – With the fire danger rating now listed as extreme in many parts of the Lower Mainland — especially on the North Shore — homeowners are being reminded to take steps to protect their properties from potential flames.

West Vancouver Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Calder says fire prevention measures are especially important for properties in heavily forested areas.

In short, he says it pays to keep things tidy.

“Homeowners can help themselves by using FireSmart principles on their homes and their properties through keeping their eaves clean and removing any material from their roofs, ensuring that their lawns are trimmed, and that the trees are kept back from their homes,” he said, adding you should also move any flammable or burning materials away from structures.

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Calder adds, most of the time, homes are lost when sparks from nearby wildfires land on the property, creating another fire.

“There are construction principles that can help to protect the home; asphalt shingles, making sure that your vents are closed with three millimetre mesh,” he explained.

While the fire danger rating on the North Shore is currently listed as extreme, Calder says things are only drying out further as the days go on.

But fire prevention is not just a summer activity. Calder says it’s important to maintain your property year-round.

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As conditions remain volatile, people are also reminded to take precautions when they’re out and about.

“Definitely, we’re not smoking in parks, and when we’re in extreme [fire danger rating], we’re not allowing barbecuing of any time, including propane, within our parks,” Calder said.

“Beach fires are always banned and you just really need to be aware that any spark in the forest can start a devastating fire right now.”

The city is hosting a free FireSmart workshop Thursday starting at 7 p.m. to help people learn more about what they can do to protect their homes and communities against fires.

People are also reminded to download the North Shore Emergency Alertable app to stay up to date on the latest information.