As warmer, drier weather raises the risk of wildfires across Alberta, Red Deer Emergency Services is calling on residents to reduce the chances that a nearby wildfire will threaten homes and neighbourhoods.
Practical actions can lower home risk
The City’s Fire Prevention Bureau is emphasising that routine upkeep around houses can make a measurable difference. Officials say small tasks — often taking only an hour or two — remove fuel that would otherwise let fire spread from yards and trees into structures.
"FireSmart their properties"
That phrase, used by the City in recent outreach, refers to a suite of commonly recommended steps compiled under the provincial FireSmart program, adapted to local conditions by municipal staff.
Recommended actions highlighted by the bureau include:
- Clear away dry leaves and pine needles from around foundations and under decks;
- Keep gutters clean and free of combustible debris;
- Store firewood and other combustibles well away from buildings;
- Trim tree branches so they do not overhang roofs or sit close to siding;
- Remove dense ground cover that can carry fire to structures.
Free assessments in higher‑risk areas
To help residents prioritise work on their properties, the Fire Prevention Bureau is offering free FireSmart home assessments for homeowners living in areas the City has identified as higher risk. During an assessment, staff visit a property, point out potential hazards and provide tailored advice on improving resilience.
The City’s website lists the neighbourhoods currently eligible for the free assessments and provides an online request form. Officials say the service is intended to focus resources where they will have the greatest effect, but they also encourage all Red Deer residents to use the FireSmart self‑assessment tools available online.
| Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| Free FireSmart home assessments | Only in identified higher‑risk neighbourhoods (see City website) |
| FireSmart self‑assessment | Available to all residents online |
Shared responsibility for wildfire resilience
Emergency Services stresses that wildfire preparedness is a shared responsibility between city staff and homeowners. City spokespeople note that municipal crews and emergency responders can act fastest when properties and streets are kept accessible and free of additional hazards.
While the measures recommended are straightforward, officials say their collective effect is important. Removing readily ignitable material near homes reduces the chance that embers or spot fires will ignite structures, and keeping trees and shrubs trimmed can slow fire spread.
Residents who are unsure whether their neighbourhood is on the City’s higher‑risk list can check the Red Deer website for details and to request an assessment. Emergency Services also advises households to maintain a personal evacuation plan and a go‑bag with essentials in case a wildfire approaches or evacuation orders are issued.
Local context and planning
Red Deer’s outreach comes as many parts of Alberta experience variable weather this season, with periods of higher temperatures increasing wildfire potential. Municipalities across the province have been encouraging FireSmart actions for several years, and Red Deer’s program follows that broader approach while directing free, in‑person help to areas determined to be more vulnerable.
For residents, taking a few hours to clear gutters, move stored combustibles and trim vegetation can reduce the load on emergency services and protect property. The City’s initiative combines practical advice, targeted in‑person assessments and online resources so homeowners can make informed choices about improving their properties’ resilience.
More information, including the list of eligible neighbourhoods and how to request a free assessment, is available on the City of Red Deer’s FireSmart webpage.
