Learning from Fort Mac

Photo: predatorridge.com

Predator Ridge residents are being urged to attend a community FireSmart information and training session this coming weekend.

The free event will include a demonstration on what homeowners can do to FireSmart their own homes and photo boards that display before and after images of clearing activities that help minimize the risk to properties in the event of a wildfire.

“As we have learned from Fort McMurray, Slave Lake and Kelowna, wildfire has the capacity to impact our personal safety and cause extensive damage to our property whether we live in heart of the city or on its edge,” said Lawrie Skolrood, Vernon Fire Rescue Services deputy fire chief. “Being prepared for fire needs to be everyone’s concern.”

The event takes place on Saturday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the corner of Niblick Way and Falcon Point Way at Predator Ridge. Anyone can attend.

Predator Ridge has been working with the fire department to be recognized as a FireSmart community.

A wildfire community hazard assessment was recently completed by the department and a provincial grant will advance efforts in making the area less susceptible to wildfire.

On Monday, Vernon fire Chief Keith Green got the green light from city council to deploy his crews to other fire halls, including Predator Ridge and Okanagan Landing “to most effectively minimize risk and maximize service levels.”

“When you see a community like Fort Mac just devastated, you want to be prepared as much as possible,” said Mayor Akbal Mund.