The Barriere FireSmart Program is dedicated to helping the community of Barriere become more resilient to the threat of wildfires. The program focuses on the seven disciplines of FireSmart: education, vegetation management, legislation and planning, development considerations, interagency cooperation, emergency planning, and cross-training. By addressing each of these areas, Barriere is working to reduce wildfire risks and build a stronger, more prepared community. FireSmart is a vital tool in protecting homes, properties, and the surrounding environment, and the Barriere FireSmart Program plays an essential role in ensuring residents are ready to face the challenges of wildfire season.

“FireSmart Begins At Home”

*Available for IOS and Android*

What is the FireSmart Home Ignition Zone?

The FireSmart Zone is the area around your home. Begin FireSmart work at your house and move outward. The closer the changes are to your home, the more they help reduce the risk of wildfire damage

FireSmart Home Assessments are designed to help homeowners identify and reduce wildfire risks around their property. These assessments focus on three priority zones:

  • Zone 1 (0–1.5 meters from the home): The area closest to the house, where it is most important to remove flammable materials and maintain non-combustible surfaces.

    Here are some examples:
    – Avoid planting shrubs or trees in the immediate zone
    – Keep the lawn mowed and green
    – Clean your roof, eaves and gutters of any debris, leaves, pine needles, etc.
    – Avoid having firewood piled up against your home

  • Zone 2 (1.5–10 meters): The area surrounding the home where landscaping and vegetation should be carefully managed to reduce fire intensity

    Here are some examples:
    – Utilize fire resistant plants (ref. Landscaping Hub) and use non-combustible landscaping material
    – Instead of mulch or other woody debris for landscaping – consider using gravel, river rock etc.
    – Avoid having and trailers, recreational vehicles and any other combustible structures such as storage sheds or vehicle tents

  • Zone 3 (10–30 meters): The outer zone, where thinning and spacing of trees and vegetation can help slow the spread of wildfire.

    Here are some examples:
    – Choose to remove evergreen trees such as Fur, Spruce, Cedar to create at least 3 meters horizontal space between the single or grouped crown
    – Prune the trees of branches to a height of approximately 2 meters from the ground
    – Continuously clean the ground fuels such as dry grass, fallen branches, leaves and needles

By addressing these three zones, homeowners can significantly increase the resilience of their homes and properties, making them safer in the event of a wildfire

Meet Ember the FireSmart Fox

Different Ways to Asses your Home:

  • Download the App for a quick “Do it yourself” Home Assessment
  • Ask your Local FireSmart Coordinator for a FREE FireSmart Home Assessment in the District of Barriere

Additional Resources:

– FireSmart BC Factsheets
– FireSmart Research
– Educational Material for Kindergarten – Grade 12
– Guides & Manuals
– Posters & Graphics
– Video

Courses available for anyone to take:
FireSmart 101 Course (online)
Wildfire Risk Reduction Course (online)

Contact us:
Barriere Fire Rescue
BOX 219
4577 Barriere Town Road
Barriere, BC V0E 1E0

Barriere Fire Rescue

Barriere Fire Rescue

FireSmart Coordinator, Ronja Baggio
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 778-257-6559


Scan the QR code below to visit firesmartbc.ca for more information