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FireSmart

The FireSmart program provides people with precautionary guidelines and steps that they can follow in order to make sure that their families and property is protected. According to the FireSmart manual 40% of all wildfires are caused by human activity. However, 60% of Alberta's wildfires are caused by lightening strikes. The FireSmart manual focuses on "reducing risks to home and community." The manual outlines three major areas that will aid in reducing the threat of and damage to property and people in the event of a wildfire.

The first 10 meters of space that surrounds the home is known as: the first priority zone. This space should be free of all combustible materials including vegetation: "Managing the space around your house and buildings is of prime importance." The second priority zone is considered to be ten to thirty meters out from the home. The main goal should be to "reduce and manage potential fuel sources so that combustion cannot be supported." And finally, the third priority zone "begins thirty meters from any structure and extends to a distance of 100 meters and beyond." This zone is probable the most extensive, but it is pivitol in reducing "the potential for a crowning fire" by maintaining the grounds and vegetation.

The structure and material out of which a building should be built is also a part of the FireSmart program. "Ensuring that designs and materials used to take fire safety and prevention into consideration." The program also suggests a need for people to have developed an emergency plan prior to the event of an emergency, as a precautionary measure, that may help prevent panic and save lives.

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End of Jasper Park Volunteer Fire Brigade:

Today, Jasper Park Volunteer Fire Brigade is still an integral part of our community. The Brigade not extinguishes fires but also provides us with preventative measures that ensure our and our families' safety.

The Jasper Park Volunteer Fire Brigade has moved into a modern, new building; but it has not forgotten its early beginnings in the small, log cabin, built in 1914. Their engines are bigger and stronger, but the importance and the bravery of the early days are not forgotten.

The Brigade continues to grow with the community of Jasper and fundraises for local charities and works hard at making Jasper a safe and caring community.