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CFES Chief encourages residents to be FireSmart
Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services (CFES) is encouraging residents to take simple, practical steps to reduce wildfire risk around their homes by using FireSmart BC resources and completing a self-guided home assessment.
“Wildfire risk is a reality for communities like Cranbrook. Our location, weather patterns, and surrounding forests all contribute to that risk,” said CFES Chief Scott Driver.
“While we prepare as a department to respond when needed, I’ve seen firsthand that the condition of individual properties can make a meaningful difference in how fires behave in a neighbourhood. Small actions—clearing combustible materials away from structures, maintaining vegetation, and keeping roofs and gutters free of debris—can significantly reduce the likelihood of fire spreading from one property to another.”
At this time, there are limitations in provincial FireSmart funding that have slowed our transition toward having FireSmart staff available to complete in-person property assessments.
Funding decisions for 2026 are not expected until later in the summer, which has delayed our ability to establish that position. That said, the work itself hasn’t changed—and it’s still accessible.
FireSmart BC offers strong, practical tools that residents can use on their own to assess their property and identify areas for improvement. I would strongly encourage people to take the time to go through that material.
“FireSmart is one of the most important steps we can take as community members to reduce wildfire risk. Our crews will always be ready to respond, but the reality is that protecting homes and neighbourhoods often starts well before an emergency,” said Driver.
“Property maintenance and small, consistent actions add up. We’re asking residents to take a look at their own properties, use the FireSmart tools that are available, and take those steps where they can. If we each do our part, we put our community in a much stronger position.”
This message builds on the approach the city has emphasized in recent years—wildfire resilience depends on all of us. The fire department will continue to focus on preparedness, response, and public education, but lasting risk reduction happens across the community, one property at a time.
Residents are encouraged to review the FireSmart BC materials and complete a home assessment using the resources available at firesmartbc.ca or HERE.
e-KNOW file photos
City of Cranbrook
