The NRRM's expansive territory includes many geographic characteristics making it a great place to live, work and play.

Though winters are long and summers short, hot weather causes forests to dry out quickly, creating an increased risk for wildfire. Residents become more impacted by wildfire where development and nature meet.

Community Wildfire Protection Plan

The Municipality is taking active steps to protect the community from wildfire.

Take a look at the NRRM's Community Wildfire Protection Plan, a strategic wildfire prevention initiative. Prepared by a licensed professional forester, the Plan contains information about wildfire risk based on assessments to:

  • Identify the risk areas within the proposed plan boundaries in the vicinity of Fort Nelson for interface fires.
  • Identify risks of wildland interface fires within and adjacent to Fort Nelson.
  • Develop strategies to reduce the risk of wildfire to homes, other infrastructure in the core community and the rural community surrounding Fort Nelson, and
  • Outlines an action plan to implement the identified measures

    Stay tuned as we undertake updates to modernize the Community Wildfire Protection Plan in 2025

Get FireSmart

Managing wildfire risk begins at home. By taking action today and creating a FireSmart property, you can dramatically increase the resistance of your home and property to damage caused by wildfire. The best part is, it's surprisingly easy to do.

Changes made to the area closest to your home, and your home itself, have the greatest potential to reduce the risk of wildfire damage. Here are a few examples of FireSmart activities:

  • Cleaning gutters of organic debris;
  • Trimming tree branches to two meters above ground;
  • Keeping your grass neatly cut;
  • Raking up piles of dried needles and leaves;
  • Removing firewood from within ten meters of your home.

    Work on your Home Ignition Zone (HIZ)
    Home Ignition Zone

    The Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) is divided into three zones to reduce wildfire risks:

    Immediate Zone (0-1.5 meters):

    • Use non-combustible materials.
    • Clear vegetation and debris.
    • Avoid or maintain woody shrubs and trees.

    Intermediate Zone (1.5-10 meters):

    • Plant fire-resistant vegetation.
    • Remove woody debris and combustible items.
    • Move trailers and sheds or use non-combustible ground cover around them.

    Extended Zone (10-30 meters):

    • Space evergreen trees at least 3 meters apart.
    • Remove lower branches up to 2 meters.
    • Clear fallen branches, dry grass, and needles.

    Start from the Immediate Zone and work outward to protect your property and help firefighters.

Fore more wildfire tips, check out the FireSmart BC Homeowner's Manual.

 
Watch FireSmart BC's Our Part Your Part video.

Report All Fires

Residents and visitors are reminded to be extremely cautious, especially when burning. If you see any suspicious smoke or flames, report all fires immediately by dialing 911.

To report fires located outside Fort Nelson, contact the BC Wildfire Service by dialing 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 on your cell phone. If you are out of the service area, the best way to report is through the BC Wildfire App.

Wildfire Updates

For information on current wildfires, bans and restrictions, visit the BC Wildfire Service's website.