FireSmart Alberta
Alberta’s unique natural landscapes and ecosystems make our challenges in the face of wildfire just as unique. These challenges call for a made-in-province solution for wildfire risk reduction and loss prevention—one that includes resources, tools, and programs that are accessible to everyone.
Founded in 2020, FireSmart Alberta grew out of the top recommendation of the Government of Alberta Spring 2019 Wildfire Review Final Report. Our goal is to foster an all-of-society approach to wildfire resiliency in Alberta. FireSmart Alberta works collaboratively and in alignment with FireSmart Canada as a provincial chapter.
Our Vision
Alberta communities are empowered with the knowledge and tools they need to live resiliently with wildfire.
Wildfires are part of our history, and we know they will be a part of our future. We will provide the tools and resources needed to help Albertans reduce the risk and negative impact of wildfires, leading to stronger and more prosperous communities throughout the province.
Our Mission
We drive the balanced application of all seven FireSmart disciplines in Alberta.
The FireSmart program is implemented through these disciplines to help communities address and mitigate their risk of wildfire.
We are developing a clear road map towards broadening municipal and Indigenous community engagement to measurably increase the application of all the disciplines in Alberta.
What you need to know about FireSmart.
FireSmart is a national program that helps Canadians increase their resilience to wildfire. Whether you are a homeowner, resident, business, local government, or Indigenous community, you can take small steps with lasting impacts.
For more than 20 years, FireSmart has been developing practical, effective, and science-based programs to help people prepare themselves for wildfire.
Wildland fuels
All vegetation (natural and cultivated)
Built fuels
Human-made structures (buildings and infrastructure)
What is the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI)?
The wildland-urban interface is where human development meets or mixes with undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels in both remote rural locations and in urban centers. When we live, work and play in the WUI, we are more exposed to the danger of wildfire.
It is important to understand the two main components within the WUI fuel complex:
- Wildland fuels: All vegetation (natural and cultivated)
- Built fuels: Human-made structures (buildings and infrastructure)
These fuels have different burning characteristic and create uniquely complex conditions when combined that affect the ignition and spread of wildfire. By understanding the complexities of these combined fuels, we better comprehend the challenges a WUI wildfire poses to firefighters.
What is the Home Ignition Zone?
The Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) is the area within 30 metres of the home and is made up of three priority zones: the Immediate Zone, Intermediate Zone, and Extended Zone. The HIZ principles help you minimize your property’s vulnerability to wildfire by addressing specific threats in each zone.
What are the seven disciplines?
- Interagency Cooperation
- Education
- Vegetation Management
- Development
- Legislation
- Emergency Planning
- Cross Training
Applying all seven is imperative to managing wildfire risk and impact.
