Gold River Students Learn the Importance of FireSmart

Jul 23, 2026

Building Preparedness Through Education

Helping young people understand wildfire preparedness is one of the most meaningful ways we can build safer, more resilient communities. Earlier this spring, FNESS FireSmart Coordinator Danika Sook travelled to Gold River to support the Mowachaht/Muchalaht FireSmart Coordinator in delivering interactive wildfire education and hands-on learning experiences for local students.

The two-day visit began at the local high school, where students explored wildfire risk through a FireSmart presentation before putting their knowledge into practice by completing a Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessment of the school grounds. They also took part in the interactive Fire in the Forest game, giving them the opportunity to learn about wildfire behaviour and the simple actions that can help reduce wildfire risk.

Hands-On Learning

Throughout the day, students rotated through interactive learning stations hosted by the local Fire Department, BC Wildfire Service, Strathcona Regional District Emergency Program, and FNESS FireSmart. Along the way, they connected with emergency professionals, received raffle tickets for the chance to win prizes, and wrapped up the day with a showing of Ember, the FireSmart mascot.

The learning continued the following day with preschool and elementary students. Preschoolers enjoyed story time and a visit from Ember, while elementary students participated in age-appropriate FireSmart presentations and activities that introduced wildfire preparedness in engaging and accessible ways.

By bringing FireSmart education directly into schools, we’re helping young people understand that emergency preparedness starts long before wildfire season begins. Every conversation, activity, and hands-on learning opportunity helps build awareness, encourages preparedness, and reminds students that everyone has a role to play in helping protect their homes, schools, and communities.