Boosting wildfire readiness in our rural communities

With wildfire seasons becoming increasingly intense, communities in the Columbia Basin are stepping up their preparedness by investing in essential equipment, training and strategic planning.

Columbia Basin Trust is supporting 34 projects that focus on proactive measures to help communities prevent and respond to wildfires, including purchasing specialized equipment and training local firefighters.

“Planning and preparation are key to helping communities stay safe during wildfires,” said Hannah Holden, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust.

“Every piece of equipment purchased or person trained strengthens our region’s ability to respond effectively, protecting homes, properties and community assets while respecting the ecological role of fire in our forests.”

Some funded projects focus on equipment purchases, such as chainsaws and hoses, while others involve training courses like first aid and wildland fire fighting. Essential planning efforts, such as ensuring water availability and delivery, are also supported.

Regional District of Kootenay Boundary: Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and area

The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary is purchasing wildfire prevention and protection equipment, including hoses, nozzles, adapters and valves, for use in Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and surrounding areas.

“Increasing the capability for our firefighters to respond to wildland fires positively impacts life safety, property conservation and environmental conservation,” said Glen Gallamore, Deputy Fire Chief.

“This equipment also provides a higher level of safety for our first responders, citizens and visitors.”

Other projects across the Kootenays


Be the first to know! Don’t miss out on breaking news and daily updates in your area. Sign up to MyNelsonNow News Alerts.

 

Continue Reading

chnv Now playing play

ckkc Now playing play

- Advertisement -

Related Articles

- Advertisement -

Latest News

Puck drop date set for KIJHL season

The puck will drop on the 2025-26 KIJHL regular season on Friday, September 19, when the league’s 21 teams each embark on a 44-game schedule.

Council votes to bring Baker Street market back downtown

Following months of community debate and vendor frustration, Nelson’s Wednesday farmers market will return to it’s longtime home on Baker Street next week (July 16). 

Report makes six recommendations on event safety after Lapu Lapu festival tragedy

A report commissioned by the B.C. government after a deadly attack at the Lapu Lapu festival in Vancouver makes a number of recommendations to improve security at public events.

B.C. SPCA welcomes proposed ban on exotic cats

The B.C. SPCA is welcoming proposed regulations from the B.C. government to ban all exotic cat species. 

RCMP seeking two men after explosion outside MLA Bowinn Ma’s North Van office

RCMP have released images of two men they believe were involved in an explosion last month in North Vancouver, which damaged the front door of the building housing the constituency office of B.C. NDP MLA and cabinet minister Bowinn Ma.
- Advertisement -