Coldstream is a community facing a serious fire risk. It holds a Class 1 fire ranking, the highest in the province. This means wildfires are a significant threat to both residents and local businesses.
To combat this, Coldstream’s council is committed to enhancing its FireSmart program. They are seeking funding through a grant of up to $400,000 from the UBCM Community Resiliency Investment Program. If approved, this would mean $200,000 each year for two years to strengthen their wildfire prevention initiatives.
The funds would not only support ongoing FireSmart activities but also fund a full-time FireSmart coordinator. This role is crucial for guiding community fire safety efforts and enhancing education around wildfire risks. With Coldstream’s location in an interface area, the chances of wildfires are notably higher, requiring a collective and proactive approach.
The district plans to use the funding for several key activities:
- Hiring a FireSmart coordinator
- Boosting outreach and education on fire safety
- Fostering cooperation among agencies
- Assessing critical infrastructure and green spaces
- Implementing vegetation management programs
- Planning for future fire-resilient initiatives
The Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan is in the final review stages. This plan identifies hazards and vulnerabilities within Coldstream and outlines strategies to improve fire resilience. It will also help set priorities for FireSmart activities going forward, including the work of the FireSmart coordinator over the next few years.
Taking these steps is essential for Coldstream’s safety and long-term sustainability, ensuring that the community is better prepared for the threat of wildfires.
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