Province prepares for wildfire season with new strategies

KAMLOOPS — British Columbia’s forests minister says the province is preparing for the wildfire season with new strategies and people living near forested areas should do their part by safeguarding property against potential blazes.

Doug Donaldson said a $101-million budget, up from $64 million last year, will allow for a more comprehensive prescribed burning program and new technology including night vision goggles to help with early detection of fires will be piloted this summer.

He said firefighters will also have more access to computers in the field and drones will assist with fire mapping and infrared scanning.

Donaldson said a program established last September is expected to fund fuel management work on Crown and private land by helping local governments and First Nations lower wildfire risks.

He said the Community Resiliency Investment Program expands municipalities’ criteria on how they can spend money on planning and urban issues and suggested development bylaws could help them with fire issues.

Donaldson said homeowners can prevent fires from growing by following the national FireSmart program recommendations by removing fuels such as wood piles and noting building material such as vinyl siding that can help grow a fire.

“One of the most important things is to make sure, whether you’re under an evacuation order or not, is to FireSmart your property,” he said.

As someone who lives in a rural area, Donaldson said he pays attention to any combustible materials near his home, ensures there are fire breaks around the house and keeps deciduous or leafy trees that are much less flammable.

Wildfires last year scorched a record-setting 13,500 square kilometres in B.C., up from 12,000 square kilometres in 2017 and forcing 65,000 people from their homes. About 510 structures were destroyed, including 229 homes.

The B.C. government has declared a state of emergency for the last two seasons.