Following the lead of neighbouring Armstrong, the Township of Spallumcheen has selected the heads of its FireSmart program.
Marc and Alexis Szarek, the founders of Bloom Flower Festivals, have been appointed as the dual FireSmart coordinators to lead wildfire preparedness efforts for the township.
香蕉视频直播淎lexis and Marc provide such value to the program as they are a part of our agricultural community with strong ties in the community," said Mayor Christine Fraser. "As a team they bring knowledge and first hand experience in both large scale event management and first hand firefighting. We are excited to have them help us ensure our community is prepared in the event of wildfire.香蕉视频直播�
With the recent rise in large-scale wildfires, including last summer's , the township has been working over the past three years to make FireSmarting a commitment.
The FireSmart coordinator position is fully funded through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Initiative program, which aims to enhance community resilience by implementing FireSmart principles.
Alexis and Marc will focus on strengthening wildfire resilience across the community.
There are a number of proactive measures the FireSmart program will take to reduce wildfire risks and educate residents, including:
香蕉视频直播� Hosting neighbourhood block parties 香蕉视频直播� Targeting high-risk neighbourhoods along the wildland-urban interface to provide hands-on education and mitigation strategies.
香蕉视频直播� Expanding neighbourhood recognition 香蕉视频直播� Encouraging local champions to participate in the FireSmart Neighbourhood Recognition Program.
香蕉视频直播� Conducting home ignition zone (HIZ) assessments 香蕉视频直播� Helping homeowners access FireSmart rebate programs by identifying and mitigating wildfire risks around their properties.
香蕉视频直播� Engaging with municipal neighbours 香蕉视频直播� Engaging with the North Okanagan and Columbia Shuswap FireSmart Resiliency Committees to align Spallumcheen香蕉视频直播檚 strategies with broader regional efforts.
香蕉视频直播� Launching a FireSmart-specific newsletter 香蕉视频直播� Providing direct updates and resources to residents to enhance wildfire preparedness and resiliency without relying on third-party platforms.
香蕉视频直播� Hosting quarterly public meetings 香蕉视频直播� Providing residents with updates on FireSmart initiatives, risk assessments, and upcoming events.
香蕉视频直播淭he safety and preparedness of our residents remain a top priority for council,香蕉视频直播� said Fraser. 香蕉视频直播淭hrough the FireSmart program, Marc and Alexis will provide education, resources, and direct support to homeowners and neighbourhoods at risk of wildfire. Council is committed to ensuring long-term wildfire resiliency in our community.香蕉视频直播�
To contact Alexis or Marc about FireSmarting or the township's FireSmart program, email firesmart@spallumcheen.bc.ca or get in touch through the township municipal office.
The Hullcar area is the first neighbourhood in Spallumcheen to receive official recognition from the FireSmart Canada Neighbourhood Recognition Program. More neighbourhoods and communities are encouraged to apply.
In late February the City of Armstrong as its new FireSmart coordinator.