We Are A
FireSmart Community
Committed To Protecting Our Community
Through FireSmart Practices
The Outback community is a proud FireSmart-certified community, actively engaged in wildfire preparedness and prevention. Nestled within a natural landscape that presents unique wildfire risks, we are committed to reducing fire hazards and ensuring our community is well-prepared for emergencies.
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Through proactive fire mitigation efforts, resident education, and collaboration with local fire authorities, the Outback continuously works to enhance safety while preserving the beauty of our environment.
What Does It Mean to Be a FireSmart Community?
FireSmart is a national program that helps communities reduce wildfire risks through prevention, education, and emergency preparedness. As a FireSmart-certified community, we adhere to best practices designed to:
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✔ Reduce wildfire fuel sources around properties and community areas
✔ Enhance emergency response planning with clearly defined procedures
✔ Engage residents in wildfire safety education and risk reduction efforts
✔ Collaborate with local fire authorities to maintain up-to-date
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​To learn more about the FireSmart program, visit FireSmart BC.
Our Proactive Approach to Fire Safety
At the Outback, fire preparedness is a community-wide responsibility, and we are committed to ensuring that our residents, visitors, and property are well-protected.
Over the past several years, we have implemented the following fire safety improvements:
Vegetation & Ladder Fuel Reduction
In partnership with the Vernon Fire Department, extensive fire mitigation work has been done on Eastside Road, including tree limbing and brush clearing to reduce fuel sources.
Fire Detection Technology
SenseNet wildfire detection sensors have been installed around the Outback, providing 24/7 monitoring and early detection capabilities.
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FireSmart Community Education & Events
Our annual FireSmart Event educates residents on wildfire prevention and emergency response, with presentations from Vernon Fire Department experts.
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Fire Response in Action!
In 2023, the Outback successfully managed multiple fire threats, demonstrating the strength of our FireSmart initiatives:
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✔ Ellison Wildfire (July 9, 2023) – Community-led fire defense efforts helped prevent the spread of flames near the Outback. Residents coordinated with fire authorities, deployed water hoses, and implemented immediate mitigation measures.
✔ McDougall Creek / Lake Country Fires (August 18-21, 2023) – As fire risks escalated, fire wardens were deployed, fire defense equipment was distributed, and an emergency preparation protocol was activated. This swift response ensured community readiness in the event of evacuation.
Staying Prepared & Getting Involved
The Outback FireSmart Committee continues to evaluate new fire prevention measures and improve our community-wide emergency response. We encourage all residents to stay informed, participate in FireSmart initiatives, and take proactive steps to protect their properties.
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For questions, updates, or to get involved with the Outback Fire Warden Program, please contact Tribe.
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Together, we are building a safer, stronger, and fire-resilient Outback Community.