The City of Calgary has launched its first wildfire prevention campaign, urging residents to reduce fire risks around their homes and communities. The campaign runs until Sept. 6 and focuses on neighbourhoods near grasslands, parks and other natural areas. Calgary Fire says wildfire, grass fire and other outdoor fire activity has generally increased since 2020 as more residents live near wildland areas. “Seasonal risk of wildfire, grass fires and other outdoor fires is a growing reality across Canada, especially where residential neighbourhoods meet wildlands,” said Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth. “Hotter, drier summers mean we all play a role in keeping our homes and communities safe.” Dongworth announced the campaign Thursday at Griffith Woods Park in Discovery Ridge, a neighbourhood he identified as at risk because homes border natural vegetation. “The intense heat and the threat of fires is something we really need to be aware of,” said Debbie Baylin, who lives in Discovery Ridge Robert Pryde also worries for what a wildfire could do to his neighbourhood. “Not only is this area at risk, it could be the adjacent one across the pavement here if the winds are high enough and the fire is vicious enough,” Pryde said. “If does happen, the question is how fast? how quick? what kind of resources can they bring on that fire?” Dana Fleury, vice-president of the Discovery Ridge Community Association, said residents in the area live alongside natural landscapes. “Discovery Ridge is a community where we need to balance the beauty of the natural landscape with the risk of wildfires,” Fleury said. “We encourage our community members here and in other areas of Calgary to learn more about how we can all mitigate the risk of wildfire in our city while preserving our environment.” The city has published maps showing where residential areas border natural vegetation. Officials say those neighbourhoods face greater risk during hot, dry and windy weather. Residents can view community-specific maps and learn more about wildfire preparedness at calgary.ca/wildfire. Calgary Fire issued a fire advisory July 30, asking residents to use extra caution with fire pits, barbecues, campfires and other open flames. “If nature is next door, wildfire is a risk,” Dongworth said. “Learn about outdoor fire risk specific to where you live — and then take any number of our recommended big and small actions that will make a difference to reduce wildfire, grass and bush fire risk in and around your home and community.” City officials are urging residents to clear combustible materials from around their homes, store propane and firewood away from buildings, and use ignition-resistant materials during renovations. Residents should also safely dispose of smoking materials, use caution in natural areas and keep emergency kits stocked with items such as N95 masks. Calgary Fire says it has specialized equipment and regularly trains for wildland fires. The city is also developing a wildfire threat assessment program.
