Wildfire Mitigation Program
The FireSmart BC Wildfire Mitigation Program (WMP) was designed to engage residents in voluntary wildfire mitigation activities by offering a professional home assessment with property-specific recommendations. The program is a collaboration between FireSmart BC, local governments, Indigenous communities, the private sector, and residents in British Columbia.
More about the program
The programs core focus is to provide a thorough, in-depth, qualitative, property and structure specific wildfire mitigation assessment of homes, community assets and critical infrastructure. A concise workplan is created for the end user, identifying key vulnerabilities using up to date wildfire research and empirical data providing best practice and guidance necessary to reduce individual structural wildfire risk.
This Wildfire Mitigation program is integrated in land use planning, fire resilient construction, insurance, and community resiliency best practice. Wildfire Mitigation Specialists in participating program areas are trained to provide this expert guidance and prepare WMP reports for clients.
Program highlights
The assessment process
In participating communities, home owners can apply online here to arrange to have a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist come to their property and conduct a free Wildfire Mitigation Program Assessment of a structure, home and property. Following this in-person, tailored assessment, a WMP Assessment will be provided via email to the client. This will provide clear guidance as to what unique risks and vulnerabilities exist at that location and provide clear guidance as to how to mitigate these features or elements. The end goal is to create wildfire-resilient structures and empower people to reduce their property's own unique wildfire risk. Participants can earn FireSmart Certification upon completed all of the outlined mitigation actions and a follow-up inspection.
Insurance incentives
The program is pleased to partner with major insurance providers in British Columbia. Homeowners or renters may be eligible for savings upon completion of an assessment and FireSmart certification with several program insurance partners. Find out more here.
More about the assessment
A FireSmart BC Home Partners Property Assessment provides residents with:
- An in-depth, on-site assessment conducted by experienced fire professionals
- An opportunity for property owners to identify mitigation actions unique to their property.
- A detailed follow-up report with customized mitigation actions designed to measurably reduce the wildfire risk on a property.
- An opportunity to earn FireSmart acknowledgement for your mitigation achievements through a certificate. The certificate is given upon successful completion of required mitigation actions and an on-site follow-up inspection.
- A mitigation certification that can be shared with participating insurance providers to showcase mitigation activities and may be eligible for insurance incentives or discounts. Please note: FireSmart does not share the assessment or any details of the assessment with the insurance industry or any other third party.
- FireSmart Home signage for their property (upon successful completion of required mitigation actions and an on-site follow-up inspection)