FireSmart

Wildfires are a natural part of Saskatchewan’s landscape, but many risks can be reduced with planning and awareness. FireSmart focuses on:

• Understanding wildfire risk
• Preventing human caused fires
• Preparing homes, properties, and communities
• Knowing what to do before, during, and after a wildfire

Simple actions like managing vegetation, following burning rules, and practicing fire safety can make a big difference.

If you live in or near forested or grassland areas, your home and yard can be part of wildfire prevention. FireSmart steps for homeowners include:

• Clearing leaves, needles and debris
• Maintaining yards and outbuildings
• Using fire resistant landscaping and materials
• Planning ahead for evacuations

Small changes can help lower wildfire risk and improve safety.

Real-life experiences show that FireSmart makes a difference.

FireSmart case studies share stories from Saskatchewan communities and individuals who took action and reduced wildfire impacts. These examples highlight how preparation, planning, and prevention helped protect homes, infrastructure, and people.

Communities play a key role in wildfire preparedness. Saskatchewan’s Emergency Planning Act requires communities to plan for emergencies, including wildfire. Municipal leaders, emergency planners, and residents can work together to:

• Identify local wildfire risks
• Improve planning and response
• Reduce risks through FireSmart practices

Communities may also be eligible for FireSmart recognition for their efforts.

Rural properties and businesses face unique wildfire challenges. FireSmart provides guidance for:

• Safe burning of stubble, piles and windrows
• Protecting buildings, equipment and operations
• Preparing livestock for wildfire events

Burning in a provincial forest, parkland, or within 4.5 km of a provincial forest requires a burn notification number. Businesses operating near forests or parks are encouraged to include FireSmart in their safety planning.

FireSmart education helps build awareness from an early age.

Schools and communities can bring FireSmart into classrooms using age appropriate, learning tools and activities such as our kid-friendly fire ambassador booklet. These resources help students understand wildfire safety and prevention in a fun, engaging way.

For more information about FireSmart school resources, email  spsa@gov.sk.ca.

Meet Ember, the FireSmart Fox and FireSmart Canada’s official mascot.

Ember teaches kids and families how to use FireSmart ideas at home and in their communities so they can be more resilient to wildfire. Through activities, lessons, and games, Ember shows how small actions can make a big difference.

Learn more about Ember and FireSmart activities for kids.

A step-by-step guide that helps homeowners understand wildfire risk and take simple, effective actions around their property. Download the FireSmart Begins at Home Guide.

A practical tool that helps homeowners identify risks and prioritize FireSmart actions around their home. Download the Home Ignition Zone Self-Assessment.

A visual overview of the three ignition zones around a home and how each zone contributes to wildfire risk. Download the Home Ignition Zone poster.

A graphic that shows how ignition zones work together and why managing all zones is important. Download the Overlapping Zones poster.

Tips and examples for creating yards and green spaces that are both attractive and fire resistant. Download the FireSmart Landscaping Guide.

Guidance tailored to northern landscapes and Indigenous communities, reflecting local environments and perspectives. Download the Home Ignition Zone for Indigenous and Northern Communities graphic.

Information on building homes with wildfire resilience in mind, from site selection to construction considerations. Download the Home Development Guide.

Planning and design recommendations to help reduce wildfire risk at the neighbourhood and community level. Download the Residential Development Guide.

A book that highlights Indigenous fire knowledge, cultural practices and long-standing approaches to fire stewardship. Download the Blazing the Trail book.