Wildland fires
Wildland fires can quickly spread consuming grass, brush and forested areas while, threatening residential yards, homes and other structures.
If you live in or beside areas at risk of wildland fires, there are steps you can take to protect your yard and home through proper landscaping and vegetation management. Homeowners should follow these tips, concentrating on the first 10 meters surrounding their homes:
- Thin and prune vegetation, cleaning up brush, leaves, grass and debris.
- Plant fire-resistant plants and shrubs. Avoid combustible plants and trees (such as cedar and pine) that accumulate dry dead material or have papery bark.
- Water plants and vegetation in the area surrounding your home, particularly during dry conditions.
- Store firewood at least 10 meters away from structures.
- Position your approved fire pits/receptacles in an open area away from overhanging trees and 10 feet away from combustible materials.
Preventing wildland, grass and brush fires
- Do not dispose of cigarette butts in any sort of vegetation (including grass), in planter pots, or from vehicle windows.
- Do not burn yard waste, garbage, or scrap material on your property. Doing so within City limits is prohibited and can result in a fine.
- Only burn clean, dry, untreated wood in residential fire pits.
- Only use Neighbourhood Liveability By-Law compliant outdoor fire receptacles such as fire pits, fire places and outdoor BBQs. Fire pits must be enclosed on all sides and have a spark arrestor.
- Always have a means to extinguish the fire readily available.