How rural property owners can reduce wildfire risk and stay prepared this summer.
Summers in Alberta offer long days, beautiful skies—and unfortunately, a growing wildfire season. If you live on an acreage, you’re more exposed to these risks than your city-dwelling neighbors. Dry grass, open fields, and outbuildings all add layers of vulnerability that require proactive fire safety planning.
Whether you’re a seasoned acreage owner or thinking about making the move to rural living, this guide will walk you through key strategies to reduce your risk and protect your home, land, and family.
Why Acreages Are More at Risk
Acreage properties often include features that increase fire exposure:
- Wide-open spaces filled with dry brush or tall grass
- Outbuildings, propane tanks, and woodpiles
- Long driveways and limited access for emergency vehicles
In a wildfire situation, response times from local fire departments may also be slower due to distance and road conditions. That’s why fire prevention and preparedness are your best defenses.
Create a Fire-Resistant Buffer Around Your Home
Acreage owners should aim to create a “defensible zone” around buildings using FireSmart principles. Here’s how:
1. Clear 10 Meters Around Your Home
- Remove dry grass, leaves, and dead branches
- Cut back overgrown shrubs or bushes
- Trim tree branches so they’re at least 2 metres off the ground
2. Keep Firewood and Fuel Away
- Store woodpiles and fuel tanks at least 10–30 meters away from any structure
- Use gravel pads or cement surfaces under tanks or outdoor equipment
3. Use Fire-Resistant Landscaping
- Avoid flammable mulch (like cedar chips) close to the home
- Use gravel, rock beds, or pavers as a protective border
- Choose low-resin, deciduous plants over evergreens for landscaping
Don’t Forget Outbuildings, Fences & Decks
It’s easy to focus on the house and overlook other structures—but barns, shops, and sheds are also at risk.
- Clean gutters and roofs on all buildings to prevent ember ignition
- Install spark arrestors on chimneys and stovepipes
- Keep siding, doors, and decks in good condition—fire spreads fastest through damaged areas
Wooden fences can also act like fire highways. Consider installing a non-flammable gate or “break” near your home to stop the spread.
Make an Emergency Fire Plan
Preparation is key—especially if you have animals, children, or mobility considerations. Start with the basics:
Have Two Exit Routes
- Plan alternate ways out of your property in case one is blocked
- Make sure gates can be opened quickly—ideally without electricity
Build an Emergency Kit
- Include water, food, important documents, phone chargers, flashlights, and medications
- Keep your kit in an easy-to-grab location
Create a Fire Drill Routine
- Practice your plan once a year with everyone on the property
- Include pet or livestock evacuation plans if applicable
Special Considerations for Rural Properties
Acreage life comes with animals, equipment, and unique responsibilities. Consider the following:
- Livestock evacuation: If you own horses or other large animals, plan how you’ll load and move them quickly
- Water tanks and pumps: Having a cistern or gas-powered pump can help you respond early while waiting for fire crews
- Stay informed: Use Alberta Emergency Alert and watch local updates. Join local acreage groups or rural FB pages that track wildfire activity
Stay Proactive: Tools & Resources
- FireSmart Canada offers great guides specific to homeowners and acreage owners
- Alberta Emergency Alert keeps you informed about nearby wildfires and evacuation notices
- Invest in a sprinkler system for your roof or perimeter if you’re in a high-risk area
Final Thought
Fire season doesn’t have to feel scary—it just requires preparation. As acreage specialists, we help our clients understand every layer of rural living, including the parts you can’t see from a listing photo.
Thinking about buying an acreage—or looking for a property that balances space and safety? Let’s talk. The LorenzTeam is here to guide you home.
