Wildfire season is becoming an increasing concern for Vancouver Island residents, making it essential to take proactive steps in safeguarding our homes and communities. Vancouver Island residents can prepare for wildfire season by clearing flammable debris, using fire-resistant plants, maintaining defensible space around their homes, and staying informed about fire risks. While we can't control the weather, we can control how we prepare. Proper yard maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce wildfire risk.
Creating a Fire-Resistant Yard

The first line of defence against wildfires starts in your backyard. A well-maintained yard can significantly reduce the spread of fire and embers. Here are some key steps to make your property more fire-resistant:
Clear Flammable Debris: Regularly remove dried leaves, branches, and other flammable materials from your yard, gutters, and roof.
Choose Fire-Resistant Plants: Opt for plants with high moisture content like lavender, succulents, and deciduous trees rather than resinous evergreens.
Use Non-Flammable Ground Cover: Replace bark mulch with gravel, stone pathways, or hardscaping to create natural firebreaks.
Maintain Proper Spacing: Keep trees and shrubs well-spaced to prevent flames from easily jumping between them. Trim branches at least two meters above the ground.
Keep Grass Short and Well-Watered: Dry grass is a wildfire hazard, so mow it regularly and consider drought-resistant ground covers.
For those looking for expert help in designing a fire-resistant landscape, Valhalla Yardscapes offers specialized services to create defensible spaces using fire-smart materials and plant selections.
Defensible Space: The Three Zones

Wildfire experts recommend creating defensible space zones around your home to minimize fire risk:
Immediate Zone (0-1.5 meters from your home)
Remove anything flammable, such as firewood stacks, outdoor furniture, and dead vegetation.
Use non-combustible materials like concrete or stone patios instead of wooden decks.
Intermediate Zone (1.5-10 meters from your home)
Space out trees and shrubs to prevent fire from spreading.
Keep lawns well-watered and use low-growing, fire-resistant plants.
Extended Zone (10-30 meters from your home)
Thin out dense brush and remove lower tree branches.
Create breaks in vegetation using driveways, pathways, or hardscaping features.
A Fire Season Maintenance Checklist
Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay on top of wildfire preparedness:
✅ Remove dried leaves, pine needles, and debris regularly.
✅ Trim tree branches and shrubs to prevent fire spread.
✅ Maintain a well-watered lawn and choose fire-resistant plants.
✅ Keep a garden hose and emergency water sources accessible.
By taking these proactive steps, Vancouver Island residents can reduce wildfire risks and better protect their homes. Whether it’s clearing brush, choosing fire-resistant landscaping, or maintaining defensible space, every effort makes a difference. And if you need professional help creating a fire-smart yard, Valhalla Yardscapes can provide expert guidance and services in Nanaimo and the surrounding areas. Share this Article with your community for a fire-smart neighbourhood
Preparing for wildfire season starts now—let’s work together to keep our island safe!
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