Preparing for wildfires

Photo: Mike Dennison

It takes an entire community coming together to help prevent wildfires, or at least limit their impact. 

The City of Enderby wants to help teach residents the most efficient ways to fight wildfires.

Next Wednesday (May 23) the city is hosting an open house meant to gather input to help update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

"Our Community Wildfire Protection Plan provides us with a foundation for protecting our community from the threat of wildfire," said Mayor Greg McCune. "Having an up-to-date plan opens the door for additional grant funding opportunities for fuel management prescriptions and treatments on Crown land."

Enderby received a grant from the province to update its Community Wildfire Protection Plan.  

The plan is intended to assist in protecting the community from wildfires.  It includes public education, structure protection, training, emergency response and vegetation management.  

The open house is a chance for the public to give their input regarding areas of the community more likely to be hit by a wildfire, values at risk on the land and known hazards.

"Fire department members will attend the open house to distribute fire smart materials and help educate residents on how they can make their properties more fire resistant," said Enderby Fire Chief Cliff Vetter.  "Implementing fire smart recommendations on private property is critical to preventing the spread of wildfire."

The open house will be held on May 23 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the City Hall Council Chambers.