Today on the GetFireSmart Podcast we speak with Jennifer Rice, the Parliamentary Secretary of Emergency Preparedness for BC. On the show we discuss the current state of British Columbia and the importance for everyone to be engaged, prepared and educated on the threat of wildfire. 2021 has started off as a record year in reference to dry conditions and active fires and we discuss what people can do to get prepared and take action. We discuss with Parliamentary Secretary Rice the threat of wildfire as a true reality in British Columbia. We discuss why it is important to be educated on the risks and what people can do to be prepared and take action to protect their home and community. We discuss the role that FireSmart can play in getting people and homes prepared and the importance of starting today, and not waiting until it is too late. This is a great episode to learn from an expert on preparedness.

There is no time to get complacent. Fire moves fast and there are key action items homeowners and communities can take to be proactive. We dig into Larry’s deep experience and some of the lessons he has learned and seen. We briefly discuss the Christie Mountain Fire and how even though 2019 and 2020 were considered slower seasons it can change quickly and preparation is everything.

On this episode, we speak with Dana Hicks from the BC Wildfire Service regarding how to understand, forecast, plan and prepare for the threat of wildfire. As a Wildfire Prevention Specialist in Prince George, it is Dana’s job to try and predict what fire is going to do and where it is going to go. We take the time to discuss with Dana about his history and experience with fire. We discuss how the BC Wildfire Service prepares for a fire season and how Incident Management Teams work. Dana shares details and background regarding what is the “Fire Danger Rating” and how fuel and weather greatly impact fire behavior. This is a great episode to learn more about how fire thinks and behaves, as well as the importance of FireSmart activities.

On this episode, we speak with Amanda from FireSmart BC regarding what FireSmart is and how it works. We chat with Amanda about her career journey and what drew her to FireSmart and the impact it has on communities across British Columbia. In our conversation Amanda shares details behind the FireSmart Neighborhood Recognition Program and the 7 steps to becoming a FCNRP. This is a great episode that dives into a variety of FireSmart topics and helps our listeners learn how to get involved in FireSmart and why it is important for everyone to take responsibility. In our conversation, we discuss some practical tips to start with FireSmart and how small steps can make a big difference over time. 

On this episode, we speak with Rob Dombowsky from the BC Wildfire Service regarding the fire in Squamish in 2020. Rob was the wildfire management lead and guided the response team in their effort to save some of the structures and homes threatened by the wildfire. Rob shares powerful stories and examples regarding the impact of FireSmart on saving several properties on the frontlines. Rob provides insights into what he looks for as a wildfire leader regarding what structures have the ability to be saved and ones that most likely cannot. This is a great episode to learn the powerful impact of FireSmart on protecting your home and neighborhood and hearing the real-life stories from the frontline of a fast-paced wildfire.

On this episode, we speak with Kelly Johnston from FireSmart Canada to learn what FireSmart really is. Kelly helps us unpack the terminology, process, and science behind FireSmart. We discuss the importance of FireSmart and some of the things that all homeowners should consider when evaluating their property for the risk of wildfire. We dig into the science and history of fire and learn about Kelly’s unique career. This is a great episode to learn the details behind the FireSmart Program for anyone looking to take action. Dig in and learn from an expert on FireSmart.

On this episode, we speak with Bryan Reid from Timber Kings to learn about the devastating fires from 2017 in Williams Lake, British Columbia. We speak with Bryan about the impact the fire had on his business and his community. We learn how fast fire can move and the devastating effect that it can have on anything it touches. We learn from Bryan firsthand regarding how the fire moved quickly and the importance of having your home prepared in advance before you hear about the risk. An important episode from a powerful story.