Wildfire season may feel far away, but now is the perfect time to act and help increase your community’s resilience.
Central Saanich Fire Department is encouraging residents of all ages to apply for the 2025 Wildfire Community Preparedness Day awards.
“FireSmart Canada wants to award people $500 for their projects that they want to accomplish to reduce the risks of wildfires that could happen in their area, " says Ryan Vantreight, district coordinator.
“Projects such as chipping events, brush removal, hosting public events are some of the ways communities can get involved.”
Vantreight says a number of neighbouring communities are collaborating to make sure people are aware this is a resource for them.
Applicants can fill out a form at firesmart.ca where they will get an email response with guidelines on how to use the funds. Groups can also apply for a $500 award to fund their Prep Day events.
FireSmart programs are concurrently running in North Saanich, Central Saanich, Sidney, View Royal, Langford, Metchosin and Sooke with a CRD FireSmart coordinator.
“We meet monthly to collaborate and help promote the program within our communities as well as regionally,” Vantreight said.
The application period closes on Jan. 31, 2025; public announcement of all award recipients will be made by May 3, 2025.
