As a wildfire burns nearby, now is the time take measures to protect your property.

For property owners who haven’t been ordered to evacuate due to the risk to life from the Keremeos Creek wildfire, the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen (RDOS) sent out a reminder that it is not too late to make properties FireSmart.

On Thursday, Aug. 4, the Village of Keremeos Fire Department, structural protection teams, and the RDOS FireSmart team were in Olalla providing FireSmart information.

Residents were told to remove dry leaves and other combustible materials from 1.5 metres around the home and in eaves, close windows, cut tall dry grass and cover wood piles with a tarp.

The RDOS has asked residents not to leave sprinklers running on the property, including when evacuating due to the fire.

Placing sprinklers on a roof is much less effective than removing dry material.

Heavy water use can also negatively impact smaller water systems and could hinder firefighting efforts. The loss of pressure from over-watering can drop pressure for fire hydrants and run reservoirs dry.

When trained structural protection units install rooftop sprinklers, they work with water system operators to manage the pressure and maximize the effectiveness of the spray. This system is in place at Apex Village where crews are collaborating to protect structures under BC Wildfire Service’s direction.

Even with sprinklers, it’s important to FireSmart the rest of your property to decrease the risk of fire spreading in the community.

READ MORE: Keremeos Creek Wildfire now over 5,900 hectares

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