Emergency Management Cowichan, on behalf of the CVRD, the Town of Ladysmith and the City of Duncan, will be launching a FireSmart Rebate program to support homeowners in performing Firesmart activities on residential properties.
The Cowichan Regional FireSmart Resiliency Program is designed to help homeowners and communities reduce the risk of wildfire damage.
Wildfires are a natural occurrence, but they can also be devastating to homes, businesses, and communities.
A Wildfire Home Assessment, available free from EMC, will help home owners identify easy steps and actions to reduce their property’s risk to wildfires.
In 2023-2024, more than 200 homes were assessed in the Cowichan region.
Recommendations in FireSmart home assessments can now be funded for eligible applicants under this rebate program.
“The frequency and intensity of wildfires have increased, making it more important than ever to take steps to protect our community,” said Chris Geiger, Town of Ladysmith's fire chief.
“This rebate program will provide funding to families who want to take steps to protect their home from wildfires, making us more resilient in the future.”
Applications for rebates up to $4,000 will open on March 19 at a limited amount per community.
To be eligible for a rebate, homeowners in Ladysmith, Duncan and the electoral areas of the CVRD must have a free FireSmart Home Assessment completed, and be willing to complete approved FireSmart work within 90 days of the application approval.
All information regarding the rebate program and home assessments, including terms and conditions, how to apply, and FAQs can be found online at https://emcowichan.ca/programs- resources/fire-smart/.
Information on the Town of Lake Cowichan's and the Municipality of North Cowichan's FireSmart programs is available through these municipalities directly.
For more information, contact a local FireSmart representative at 250-746-2500 Ext. 5012, or email Firesmart@emcowichan.ca.
