The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) is encouraging residents in Electoral Areas B, C, D, E, and F to register for FireSmart assistance through the RDNO FireSmart Chipping Program and the RDNO FireSmart Home Assessment Program, now open for the 2026 season.
FireSmart is a national program that helps communities and homeowners reduce wildfire risk around their properties. By taking proactive steps—such as managing vegetation, reducing fuel sources, and improving property maintenance—residents can significantly increase their resilience to wildfire. FireSmart practices rely on shared responsibility among homeowners, neighbourhoods, and local governments to create safer, better-prepared communities.
FireSmart Chipping Program
The FireSmart Chipping Program supports residents in creating safer properties by providing free curbside chipping for tree branches, shrubs, and other woody debris. By removing excess vegetation and reducing fuel sources, homeowners can lower wildfire risk around their homes. This program is open to all residents in Electoral Areas B, C, D, E, and F from April 1 to October 31, 2026. Residents can register at www.rdno.ca/firesmart/chippingprogram. Please note: Limited dates are available - early registration is encouraged.
FireSmart Home Assessment Program
The FireSmart Home Assessment Program offers residents a free, personalized wildfire risk assessment of their property. A trained Wildfire Mitigation Specialist will visit the home, identify potential hazards, and provide practical recommendations to strengthen fire resilience. This program is open year-round to residents in Electoral Areas B, C, D, E, and F. Residents can register at www.rdno.ca/firesmart/homeassessment.
With wildfire seasons becoming increasingly unpredictable, taking small steps now can make a big difference. RDNO encourages all Electoral Area residents to register early and take advantage of these free FireSmart programs.
For more information about the FireSmart Chipping Program or the FireSmart Home Assessment Program, please visit www.rdno.ca/firesmart or contact the RDNO FireSmart Coordinator at firesmart@rdno.ca
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For media inquiries:
Stacey Raftus, Communications Officer
communications@rdno.ca