Achi news desk-
With dozens of wildfires already burning across Alberta, the Banff fire department is educating residents and visitors on how the town is prepared to respond to emergencies.
The Town of Banff Fire Department partnered with Canmore Fire Rescue and Parks Canada on Tuesday to put on live demonstrations for Banff Valleyview residents on how crews would stop approaching fires with high-powered sprinkler systems and fire truck operations.
Crews demonstrated a wet line of hydrant spraying along the community-wildland interface and conducted simulated engine operations throughout the day and evening.
Banff Fire Chief Russ Geyer says the goal is to provide reassurance to the community while also reminding citizens that wildfire safety prevention requires a collaborative approach.
“They can see the efforts we make to protect the community when there are wildfires. They can also see how they can be a part of that community prevention,” said Geyer, adding that it’s rewarding to work with communities on fire safety and prevention.
“The Valleyview community has been one of our leaders for years. They have been looking after the vegetation in the community, removing trees and replacing them, trimming trees and encouraging neighbors to FireSmart in their properties.”
The presentations provided information about FireSmart programs, such as financial incentives to replace conifers, combustible shingles and best practices for trimming and cleaning community hazards.
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Firefighters also demonstrated how easy it is to set up a homeowner-installed rooftop sprinkler system, which can be purchased at a Town of Banff discount rate.
Last year was a record year for wildfires in Canada and forecasts suggest another dry summer will prompt a longer wildfire season, which is why Banff officials are urging residents to take steps to be prepared for emergencies.
“Our firefighters and partner agencies are thoroughly trained and prepared for disaster response. We are asking residents to help us reduce the risk of fire spreading within their neighborhoods and businesses to develop and test their emergency response plans to support their staff, customers and property,” said Banff director of protective services and emergency management, Katherine Severson.
The Town of Banff works closely with Parks Canada, which has an extensive wildfire monitoring system, and the town also has a mutual aid agreement with Canmore to ensure coordinated regional protection.
Officials encourage residents to prepare for evacuation by reviewing the Evacuation Guide and evacuation checklist, and to prepare a “Go Bag” or emergency kit with essentials for 72 hours away from home.
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