Whereas the FireSmart program is a valued initiative that helps British Columbia residents understand how wildfires can threaten structures, properties and communities and provides information on reducing wildfire hazards on private properties; And whereas the Provincial Government could further build upon the success of the FireSmart program by developing a broad-based public awareness campaign that draws on the interests of various organizations to build community support: Therefore be it resolved that the Provincial Government collaborate with private and public organizations such as local governments, insurance companies, broadcasters, first responders, etc. to develop and implement an innovative, all-platform public awareness campaign that: - encourages a shift in attitude towards accepting personal responsibility in reducing wildfire hazards on their own properties; and - provides clear information about the FireSmart program, including the preventative steps residents are encouraged to consider carrying out on their own properties.
Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development The Province commends local governments for recognizing the importance of shared responsibility in hazard mitigation and presenting a pro-active initiative, and agrees that working together on wildfire prevention and mitigation is the most effective way to increase public safety and minimize the potential negative impacts of wildfire. The BC Wildfire Service will continue to work with communities, First Nations and regional governments to raise public awareness of FireSmart principles and the proven benefits of reducing wildfire risks on private property and in neighbourhoods. This resolution will be forwarded to the B.C. FireSmart Committee for consideration as they develop strategies to increase public awareness and use of FireSmart principles. The new Community Resiliency Investment Program will provide funding to local governments and First Nations in B.C. to undertake community-based FireSmart planning and activities to reduce wildfire risks to communities. Education with a focus on public outreach, will be a supported activity under the program. Government urges communities, local organizations and the public to undertake small-scale or localized awareness campaigns. Grassroots endeavours are effective and will strengthen formal campaigns or efforts put forward by agencies and levels of government.