The Get FireSmart Podcast

In this episode of the Get FireSmart Podcast, we’re joined by Armel Castellan, Warning Preparedness Meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada. With a diverse career spanning aviation meteorology, Arctic weather, Indigenous collaboration, and emergency management, he brings a unique perspective to wildfire resilience. In this episode, we explore the intricate relationship between weather, wildfire, and health, diving into topics like cascading hazards, the rising frequency of extreme weather events, and their immense impacts on vulnerable populations. Join us as Armel shares insights from his keynote presentation at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit, highlighting the role of partnerships, community preparedness, and the evolving science of smoke and health impacts. Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

This episode of the Get FireSmart Podcast features Kara McCurdy, Wildfire Mitigation Program Manager for Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency Services and one of the 2024 Lynn Orstad Award winners. With over 30 years of experience as a forest technician, structural firefighter, and fire behaviour analyst, Kara brings extensive expertise and passion to wildfire mitigation. In this episode, we discuss the transformative power of FireSmart principles, Kara’s keynote presentation at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit, lessons from her incredible career in Nova Scotia, and her vision for the future of wildfire resilience. Don’t miss this conversation with one of the leading voices in wildfire mitigation!Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

Many Indigenous communities—particularly those in remote locations—are immensely vulnerable to the threat of wildfire. FireSmart represents one pathway towards wildfire resilience that Indigenous communities may choose to adopt, often blending and working with established cultural fire practices and land stewardship initiatives. To discuss her experiences and the process of integrating FireSmart into an Indigenous community, we sat down with Local FireSmart Representative Aislinn Gentles, currently working as the OHS & Emergency Program Manager for Saulteau First Nations. Through our conversation, we learn how she has worked with Saulteau First Nation in the integration of FireSmart and how these programs can help support the ongoing stewardship of their lands. We also discuss her suggested Indigenous Community Project Guide and how it supports Indigenous communities in starting their FireSmart Journey and continuing it for years to come.This episode was recorded live at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcLearn more about Saulteau First Nations: https://www.saulteau.com/

In this episode, we speak with Jason Brolund, Fire Chief of West Kelowna. Through our conversation, we discuss his experiences with the devastating 2023 McDougall Creek wildfire and the important lessons learned from a difficult wildfire season. As a fire professional with decades of experience, Chief Brolund emphasizes the effectiveness of proactive preparedness through FireSmart principles, the power of clear communication with community members, and the importance of building relationships with other fire professionals and industry specialists. Through strong relationships, communication, and collaboration, Chief Brolund and his team were able to rally an army of 10,000 professionals to battle the blaze and minimize damage.This episode was recorded live at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcRead about a FireSmart success story in West Kelowna: https://firesmartbc.ca/beyond-the-blaze-how-one-home-stood-strong-in-the-face-of-wildfire/

In this episode, we sit down with Matt MacDonald, Lead Fire Weather Forecaster with the Predictive Services Unit for the BC Wildfire Service. Through our conversation, we dive into his background and learn what a day in the life of the Lead Fire Weather Forecaster looks like. As an experienced meteorologist and weather professional, Matt explains how t​​emperature, relative humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and wind direction come together to influence the potential for ignition, rate of spread, and intensity of wildfires. He also touches on the importance of FireSmart actions and how they can help residents navigate the trend of increasingly severe fire weather. This episode was recorded live at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcFor important wildfire information, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status

In this special two-guest episode, we speak with Vic Upshaw, the response support supervisor for FNESS, and Craig Moore, the founder and president of Rider Ventures, to explore their extensive experience in the world of wildfire resilience and response. Through our conversation, we learn about the importance of collaboration between communities, the BC Wildfire Service, and other organizations in protecting our province from the growing threat of wildfire. With over 60 years of combined experience, Vic and Craig have learned that close collaboration at all levels allows us to pool our knowledge, skills, and resources to create a unified strategy that enhances immediate response efforts while strengthening long-term resilience. This episode was recorded live at the 2024 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcLearn about FNESS: https://www.fness.bc.ca/  Learn about Rider Ventures: https://www.riderventures.ca/

We're excited to feature Dan Stevens, a FireSmart BC education and outreach coordinator from Chase, BC. Dan works with First Nations’ Emergency Services Society and has a passion for wildfire education, bringing his strong background of engaging with communities all across the province on the importance of FireSmart and wildfire preparation. In this episode, we talk about getting ready for wildfire season: what to do, how to prepare, and how we can increase collaboration and training across the province to improve our resilience together. Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caLearn about FNESS: https://www.fness.bc.ca/ Watch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

Today’s discussion features Pete Laing, superintendent of fuel management with BC Wildfire Service. This episode unpacks his 33-year history in fire response and fuel management, discussing fuel types, the difference between good fire and bad fire, and the work that BC Wildfire Services does to protect BC communities. We'll learn about how fires move, the impact that has on fuel behaviour, and how to be more resilient. Pete has built his entire career on fire, and this episode is a valuable exploration of his lessons and insights. Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caLearn more about the BC Wildfire Service: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status Watch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

In this special two-guest episode, we dive into the FireSmart BC Education Program and how it initially took shape, featuring two key players in the process. Amanda Reynolds is the FireSmart supervisor with FNESS, and Warren Woytuck works as the director of the Critical Thinking Consortium (TC2). Get to know Amanda and Warren and their passion for wildfire resilience and education, and dive into the story of how the FireSmart Education Program was created to empower teachers and parents as they raise and educate the next generation of FireSmart British Columbians. Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caWatch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcExplore the FireSmart Education Program’s free lesson plans: https://firesmartbc.ca/educationprogram/ Learn about the Critical Thinking Consortium (TC2): https://tc2.ca/

Jen Baron is a transdisciplinary ecologist and researcher with the Pacific Institute of Climate Solutions (PICS) Wildfire and Carbon Project and Canada Wildfire Strategic Network, with a focus on wildland fire, data science, and disturbance and landscape ecology. In this episode, we discuss Jen’s background, the history of fire in BC, and the importance of understanding and restoring active fire regimes in BC. Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caLearn more about Canada Wildfire: https://www.canadawildfire.org/ Learn more about the Pacific Institute of Climate Solutions: https://pics.uvic.ca/projects/wildfire-and-carbon Watch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

Christina Hanger works in community engagement for the Country Fire Authority in Australia. She was one of the keynote speakers for the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit, and in this episode, we further unpack what she shared during her presentation. We specifically explore how Australia continues to invest in community engagement, awareness, and education on wildfire resiliency, and how BC can learn from their example. Christina is passionate about raising awareness and giving back to communities impacted by wildfires. This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:Learn more about FireSmart BC: firesmartbc.caLearn more about the Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: https://firesmartbc.ca/wildfire-resiliency-and-training-summit/Explore the Country Fire Authority website: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ Watch FireSmart BC videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

In today’s exciting episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Wayne Schnitzler, the Executive Director of the First Nations Emergency Services Society (FNESS). Wayne started his 35-year career in fire service in 1979 with the City of Surrey as a volunteer firefighter, and has since been a Captain of Training, Fire Chief, and received provincial and federal exemplary service awards for 20, 25, 30, and 35 years of fire service. He has also received Citizen of the Year in 2009 and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. This episode explores Wayne’s role in FNESS and how the organization is working to build resilient First Nations communities through emergency management. This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:To learn more about FireSmart BC visit firesmartbc.caLearn more about the Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: https://firesmartbc.ca/wildfire-resiliency-and-training-summit/To explore the FNESS website, visit https://www.fness.bc.ca/ Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

This impactful episode introduces Daniel Berlant, the Acting State Fire Marshal and Deputy Director of Community Wildfire Preparedness and Mitigation at the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). We learn what his organization is doing to address the increasing threat of wildfires and how residents can participate. From actionable steps for residents to community involvement programs to global partnerships, this episode is an inspirational look into how far we’ve come globally in addressing wildfires and how we can all contribute to a safer, more resilient future for everyone.This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:To learn more about FireSmart BC visit firesmartbc.caLearn more about the Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: https://firesmartbc.ca/wildfire-resiliency-and-training-summit/Explore Daniel Berlant’s CAL FIRE website: https://www.fire.ca.gov/prepare Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcFinal Podcast Assets:AUDIO: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1zZY_8QqCxUsAfBIEuq4VcnSRA6OkCgMJ

In our second conversation with Mike McCulley, we dive into his experience at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit. Mike is a Research and Innovation Senior Officer at BC Wildfire Service and has worked for the BC Ministry of Forests for 28 years. He’s currently leading the BC Wildfire Service Research and Innovation program. This episode explores Mike’s takeaways from the conference—the people he spoke to, the lessons he learned, and a deeper understanding of his background and why he loves this line of work. For Mike, it all comes down to people and establishing relationships so that we can continue to tackle wildfires around the globe. This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:To learn more about FireSmart BC visit firesmartbc.caLearn more about the Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: https://firesmartbc.ca/wildfire-resiliency-and-training-summit/To explore the BC Wildfire Service website, visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcFinal Podcast Assets:AUDIO: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ol1-kXeCP5H2VU6yLamd_1A15qrUcs-y

Mike McCulley is a Research and Innovation Senior Officer at BC Wildfire Service. In today’s episode, we begin the first of two parts and dive into Mike’s career on the front lines of wildfires. Mike specializes in working with both data and people—which are two things your average person doesn’t often think about when considering a wildfire. He shares stories of impact that stood out to him during his career, significant lessons learned, and the importance of FireSmart and wildfire resiliency. Mike has worked for the BC Ministry of Forests for 28 years and is currently leading the BC Wildfire Service Research and Innovation program. Links:To learn more about FireSmart BC visit firesmartbc.caTo explore the BC Wildfire Service website, visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

This episode features Brian Hutchinson, Fire Chief for the District of North Vancouver. In our conversation with Chief Hutchinson, we speak about his personal background, his passion for wildfire and his focus on training and developing his team and community to become more resilient to wildfire. This episode also highlights his involvement as the host fire department of the 2023 Summit and he touches on how the conference came to be, the planning it took to bring it to life over the past two years as well as the focus on the main theme - Partners in Progress. This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.Links:To learn more about FireSmart BC visit firesmartbc.caLearn more about the Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit: https://firesmartbc.ca/wildfire-resiliency-and-training-summit/Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc

This special episode features Deanne Suddaby and Brittany Seibert, both proud recipients of the 2023 Lynn Orstad Award. In our conversation today, we speak with Deanne and Brittany about their professional background, their personal passion for wildfire,  and their experience building their careers focused on wildfire resiliency. Brittany Seibert is currently the Emergency Program Coordinator for the City of Penticton as well as working with the BC Wildfire Service as a Structure Protection Specialist. Brittany was grateful to be recognized for her impactful work through the Lynn Orstad Award. She is also deeply honoured to be recognized in memory of someone who was such a positive influence on everyone who worked with her. Deanne Suddaby is currently the FireSmart Program Advisor for FireSmart BC and FireSmart Alberta. She had the opportunity to work directly with Lynn Orstad in the past and is humbled to have been nominated and chosen for the award. Deanne is thankful that Lynn’s incredible legacy lives on through this award.Links:Learn more about the Lynn Orstad Award: https://firesmartbc.ca/lynnorstadaward/To learn more about the FireSmart BC program visit firesmartbc.caTo learn more about FireSmart Canada visit: https://firesmartcanada.ca/Watch FireSmart BC Videos: https://vimeo.com/firesmartbcKeep your eye out in Winter of 2023 for the 2024 Lynn Orstad Nominations to open!

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Mike Flannigan from Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, British Columbia. As an award-winning researcher and leading expert on wildfire behaviour and landscape fire modelling, his research goals include developing methods to help predict when and where extreme fire weather may arise and exploring the development of early warning wildfire notification systems. His passion for fire and weather has led him to work directly with the BC Wildfire Service to help predict wildfire activity and behaviour and assist them in preparing for and responding to wildfires in the province.In our conversation with Mike, we lean into his research and extensive time spent studying wildfire as he shares his past experience learning how fire moves, how it consumes fuel and the insights that are constantly changing. Links:Follow Dr. Flannigan on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikeflanniganLearn more about his research at: https://www.mikeflannigan.com/To learn more about the FireSmart BC program and other partnerships across the province, visit firesmartbc.ca

As an entrepreneur and former firefighter, Robert has spent his career building tools and solutions to increase access to information by firefighters, fire managers and decision-makers. He is passionate about the way new technologies can better inform decision-making, safety and public expenditure. Also, fire. He loves fire.In this episode, Robert discusses the impact that technology can have on fire and how it can assist in fighting wildfire including remotely piloted aircraft systems and wildfire intelligence fire drone mapping.  He also shares stories from his background in firefighting and how it led him to kickstart his own company. This is a great episode for anyone interested in the intersection of wildfire and technology and the future of fire. Links:For more information about Hummingbird Drones, visit https://www.hummingbirddrones.ca/:For more information about Fire AI, visit https://www.fireai.io/:To learn more about the FireSmart BC program and other partnerships across the province, visit firesmartbc.ca

Mike Morrow is a Wildfire Prevention Officer who has worked with the BC Wildfire Service for over four decades. Since his first role as an auxiliary silviculture tech, his career has taken him across the province, including Nakusp, Port McNeill, Vanderhoof and Cranbrook.In this episode, Mike shares stories from working on the front lines and reflects on his vast experience in the wildfire landscape, including some unique projects he has participated in. He also shares his outlook on how the industry has changed over the years and the importance of adopting FireSmart principles to live in a world with wildfire.Links:*Note: the Guardians of the Grasslands project was misquoted during this episode. Mike meant to refer to the Too Close to Home video, which explains the cattle grazing project: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-An1z8XMxsFor more information about Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire, visit prescribedfire.caTo learn more about the FireSmart BC program and other partnerships across the province, visit firesmartbc.ca