The Town of Cochrane is launching the Community FireSmart Program to enhance wildfire preparedness and reduce the risk of wildfires impacting homes and infrastructure. As wildfire threats continue to rise across the region, the town hopes this initiative will empower residents with the knowledge and tools to protect their properties and contribute to a fire-resilient community.
The Community FireSmart Program is a collaborative effort involving the Town of Cochrane, Cochrane Fire Services, community organizations, and residents. By following the seven FireSmart principles, the program promotes proactive wildfire mitigation strategies such as vegetation management, home hardening, and emergency preparedness.
“We’ve all seen the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in recent years,” said Mayor Jeff Genung. “As we expand the FireSmart program to cover larger areas in our community, we’re also encouraging Cochranites to take part in fire prevention efforts. Through the Community FireSmart Program, we’re taking a proactive approach to protect Cochrane by providing residents with practical steps to reduce fire risks around their homes.”
The Community FireSmart Program will provide residents with access to educational resources, workshops, and property assessments to identify wildfire risks and implement mitigation measures. These measures may include vegetation management, home hardening, and community preparedness initiatives. By working together, residents can create a more fire-resilient community and reduce the potential for loss during wildfire events.
"Wildfires are a shared risk that requires a collective response," said Shawn Polley, Fire Chief of Cochrane Fire Services. "By engaging residents and stakeholders through the Community FireSmart Program, we can build a stronger, more resilient community that is better equipped to withstand the threat of wildfires. We encourage all residents to get involved and take proactive steps to protect their homes and families."
The launch of the Community FireSmart Program aligns with the Town of Cochrane's commitment to public safety and emergency preparedness. By investing in wildfire mitigation and prevention efforts, Cochrane aims to reduce the impact of wildfires on its residents and environment while fostering a culture of resilience and preparedness.
For more information about the Community FireSmart Program and how to get involved, visit www.cochrane.ca/FireSmart or contact Cochrane Fire Services at (403) 851-2540.
