The District of Elkford has obtained the FireSmart Canada Community Protection Achievement Award, for their dedication to reducing wildfire risks and implementing solutions to increase public safety.
Created in 2012, the FireSmart Canada Community Recognition Program was meant to encourage communities to collaborate and find safety solutions to mitigate the risks that local wildfires may pose.
Developing a Community Wildfire Protection Plan, the District of Elkford has also made periodic investments into fuel treatments on its urban wildland interface, while also investing in wildfire reduction and mitigation.
“Mayor, Council, staff and residents continue to support these prevention initiatives,” said Corey Kortmeyer, Director, Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. “This valued support ensures Elkford is appropriately prepared in prevention activities when it comes to the threat of wildfires. We are very fortunate to be recognized for our hard work over the years.”
“The District of Elkford is extremely proud to join the ranks of other FireSmart-recognized communities in British Columbia and across Canada,” said Dean McKerracher, Mayor of Elkford. “We are committed to continued efforts to keep our community safe from wildfire.”
The municipality said they have made wildfire risk a priority since 2006, taking a strategic approach the Community Wildfire Protection Plan to diminish the risk of wildfires to Elkford.