Fire Smart Program

We chose to live amongst the trees and we all want to protect our forests. Take a few minutes and acquaint yourself with things you can do to protect your home and forest. 

Click here to learn more about the Fire Smart program and how you can book your own home assessment.

It is possible to get fire insurance for your home. A question you might be asked by your agent is are you fully protected? The answer is, we are considered to be semi-protected. as there is not a ready supply of water via hydrants like in the city. This is not to say there isn't water available if a home fire should break out. But as such, the Valley is considered to be semi-protected.

Payment of fire dues is also necessary as your insurance provider may follow-up with the Fire Chief to ensure dues have been paid. 

Click here for information on dues.

You may not have a lot of time to gather your belongings, your pets and important documents in the event of an evacuation. While we don't like to think this will actually happen to us, we do live in a remote area where floods have occurred and forest fires are a real danger. 

It is important you have a grab and go bag ready. 

For more information on hold to build and emergency kit and a grab and go bag click here.

Many questions can arise before, during and after an evacuation. Questions such as what can I expect during an evacuation? What supports are available to me during and afterwards? Will I be eligible for any financial assistance?

To learn more about emergency evacuation and recovery information click here.

Things are a bit different in Sunshine Valley in terms of what you must be prepared for. For example, it could be a sunny day and all of a sudden the power goes out and stays out for an extended period of time. Most homeowners have external generators and some have invested in built in ones in case such an event occurs. 

Or if a wild fire get out of control you might be asked to evacuate towards the Okanagan only to realize you don't have a full tank of gas to get you there. A good rule of thumb is never let your car go past 1/2 full. Better yet, fill up before you come home.

If an emergency happens be prepared with food, water and whatever you need for at least a period of 72 hours. 

If you need assistance and it is not an emergency and there are no fire fighters at the fire hall, you can identify a fire fighter in your neighborhood by looking out for this sign which indicates a fire fighter lives here.