Vernon is advising its residents on ways to FireSmart their property.
Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) and the city are asking residents to consider FireSmart plant options when looking to spruce up their yards or properties.
“While there are no fire-proof plants, there are FireSmart options that are less prone to burning than others,” said FireSmart co-ordinator Wes Brassard. “By making the right strategic choices in your yard, you can make your property more resilient to fire, which better protects your home, family and community.”
There are several opportunities to make a plant fire-resistant, including moist, supple leaves, minimal dead wood or accumulated dead material, slower growing habits and water-like sap with little to no odour.
In contrast, a highly flammable plant contains fine, dry, dead material within the plant such as twigs, needles, or leaves, along with loose papery bark, and stems, branches or leaves containing volatile waxes, terpenes or oils.
To help residents learn more about fire-resistant planting and the provincial FireSmart plant program, Brassard will be at the Nicholas Alexander Home and Garden Centre on Saturday, July 8 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to ask questions about the program and how to book a free FireSmart property assessment.
More information can be found at firesmartbc.ca.
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@B0B0Assman
bowen.assman@vernonmorningstar.com
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