Since 2020, the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako has offered the FireSmart Program to rural residents living in the region. This program offers free, confidential assessments, rebates for work completed, and education on how to make properties more resilient to wildfires.

Wildfires are a significant threat to communities, homes and livelihoods. While wildfires are a natural occurrence in the regional district,  proactive measures can greatly reduce the risks to our communities. The FireSmart Program encourages residents to adopt simple, scientifically backed strategies to enhance wildfire resilience.

The FireSmart Homeowner’s Manual outlines numerous easy and cost-effective methods to make your property more resillient to wildfire. Additionally, you can receive a complimentary residential assessment from our FireSmart Representative to better understand and implement these practices.

Take action today—be FireSmart and help protect your home and community.

 What does the RDBN FireSmart Program offer to rural residents living within the region?

• FireSmart Assessment performed by a certified FireSmart Representative – free for rural residents living within Electoral Areas.
• Rebates - upon completion of the assessment, rebates may cover a portion of the costs of contractor invoice costs, materials, or your time spent on hazard mitigation efforts.
• Public Awareness – Education is one of the most critical pieces of FireSmart. The Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako continues to be active participants in FireSmart education.
• School Program – Learn how students can become more involved.

The RDBN continues to promote the importance of FireSmart to residential properties by attending community events. Come visit us at our booth; meet and greet our knowledgeable staff. Gather educational material and sign up for a free FireSmart assessment.

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What do you need to know about Wildfire Mitigation Program (Home Assessments)?

What will the Assessment reveal?

After the assessment, homeowners will receive a confidential, detailed report outlining specific actions they can take to make their homes more resilient to wildfire.  

Now that you have a FireSmart Home Assessment – what is the next step?

The RDBN has a list of local contractors you can choose to hire to complete the work, or you can do the work yourself. A rebate form will be given to you to complete once the work has been completed. All expenses for the work completed are paid by the homeowner, the RDBN will then reimburse you for a portion of the eligible expenses.

*Consult with the FireSmart Representative to confirm eligible work before proceeding with repair/replacements.

What is Considered Eligible Work?

Examples are:

• Installation of fire-rated roofing.
• Installation of non-combustible siding.
• Renovations of combustible decks using non-combustible materials.
• Landscaping – removal of ground fuels, removal of and/or pruning of conifers.

For more information visit: FireSmart BC

Let’s talk Rebates

The FireSmart Program provides rebates for homeowners living within the Electoral Areas of the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako who conduct FireSmart work on their property. This funding may reimburse a portion of the costs of materials and time spent conducting hazard mitigation work on your property. 

Priority Actions

Eligible actions are determined by examining the Home Ignition Zones. These zones are listed in order of priority to help identify what poses the greatest wildfire risk to each home.

Rebates are available on labour and material costs or contract invoice costs at 50% as per Priority Actions per address, depending on the priority risk level of the activity being completed. The rebate will be reimbursed by the Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako upon successful completion of eligible actions, and after receiving the following information:

• Photos of completed work
• Paid invoices/record of hours
• Mailing address

Note:
Rebate amounts will be at the discretion of the FireSmart Representative.
Consult with the FireSmart Representative to confirm eligible work before proceeding with repair/replacements.
Rebates will be accepted until November 30 of that calendar year.

Frequent Asked Questions

What does the FireSmart Representative look at when performing the assessment?

• Roofing materials and condition
• Gutter type and roof cleanliness
• Building exterior and siding material and condition
• Deck and porch
• Outbuildings
• Forest and surface vegetation

What should I expect when a FireSmart Representative comes to do an assessment?

• Time assessed 1-2 hours.
• External assessments only.
• Representative will review the assessment form with the homeowner once completed.

Do I have to be home when the assessment is performed?

• It is preferred so the Representative can go over the assessment, but it is not required.

How much can I claim for a rebate each year?

• Eligible activity that were recommended in your assessment may be eligible for a 50% reimbursement up to:
  • Immediate Zone max rebate of $5000, or
  • Intermediate Zone max rebate of $2500, or
  • Extended Zone max rebate of $1000

Can I claim family members’ labor work hours on my rebate claim?

• Yes, in-kind hours can be claimed.

Get involved with the FireSmart Program by becoming a:

• FireSmart Ambassador
• Neighbourhood Recognition Program Specialist
• Home Ignition Zone Specialist
• Program Coordinator
• Local FireSmart Representative (LFR)

To learn more about these programs visit: https://firesmartcanada.ca/program-support/

Expand your knowledge on the FireSmart Program

Looking to landscape your property using FireSmart guidelines?

Things to consider:

• Plant fire resistant plants – consult your local garden store.
• Choose plants for your hardiness zone.
• Be sure to water the plants regularly.
• Maintain your lawn – keep your grass cut.
• Be cautious of using bark mulch and pine needle mulch.

Resources

Celebrate Wildfire Community Preparedness Day observed on the first Saturday in May. We encourage residents to come together to host events and engage in projects that raise awareness about wildfire risks and enhance community resilience.