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Vernon Strata Complex Enhances Fire Safety by Removing Cedar Hedges
A substantial strata development in Vernon, British Columbia, is taking significant measures to enhance fire safety by clearing a large number of cedar trees from its property.
Wes Brassad, who serves as the FireSmart coordinator for the City of Vernon, reported, “We’ve removed 40 dump truck loads of cedar hedges, with another approximately 40 expected to follow.”
The effort involves the removal of over 2,000 feet of cedar hedges at the Spruce Landing complex situated along 25th Avenue. Brassad noted, “This strata has undertaken the most extensive removal in a single phase.”
This initiative is a proactive response to a pair of hedge fires that occurred earlier in the year, including one that came alarmingly close to residential areas. Simon Haxby, the president of the Spruce Landing strata, remarked on the community’s concern, stating, “People were genuinely worried about the fire since the strata units are in such close proximity to the hedge.”
Fortunately, although a window did crack from the intense heat, the fire was extinguished before it could encroach on any of the nearby homes.
Cost and Concerns
Undoubtedly, the financial outlay for these FireSmart measures at Spruce Landing is not insignificant. Nonetheless, residents have reached a consensus that these precautionary efforts are essential. Haxby noted, “We’re paying roughly $1,500 per unit. It’s costly, but the residents voted for it because they deemed it worthwhile.”
Similar fire incidents have occurred in other communities, including a spring fire in Kelowna that resulted in a garage and vehicle being destroyed due to a cedar hedge catching fire.
While cedar trees are often favored for their appearance, they are categorized as highly flammable vegetation. Kelowna’s deputy fire chief, Larry Watkinson, emphasized this danger, explaining that while the outside may appear lush, significant risks may lie beneath. “The oil and debris accumulates and builds up a highly flammable environment,” Watkinson explained. “When embers from other fires land in that, it can smolder and ignite the cedar hedge, leading to a rapid spread.”
Fire Safety Initiatives
Fire officials are actively advising residents to consider replacing cedars with more fire-resistant plant species. At the Spruce Landing complex, the installation of a metal fence is underway to provide additional security and peace of mind in the event of future fires. “It’ll be a lot safer,” Haxby stated. “We’ve significantly reduced the fire hazard here.”
Many communities offer FireSmart programs, which encompass complimentary assessments of homes. For additional information on these initiatives, you can visit the B.C. FireSmart website.
Source
globalnews.ca