BC Wildfire Structure Protection Program
Last updated on April 10, 2024The BC Wildfire Service provides training and deployments for local fire departments and contract crews to defend communities in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) that may be threatened by wildfire.
The Structure Protection Program is a collaboration between the BC Wildfire Service and the Fire Chiefs Association of B.C.
Get involved
Updated information packages are distributed to all municipal and regional fire departments in B.C. inviting firefighters to participate in the BC Wildfire Service Structure Protection Program. The latest Letter to Fire Chiefs and Emergency Coordinators (PDF, 120KB) is available online for reference and download.
Further information on structure protection applications, training and deployments can be found on the following pages: ​
Applications
Interested departments must submit an application that outlines their available apparatus and personnel.
Training
The BC Wildfire Service provides structure protection courses to fire departments, First Nations and contractors.
Deployments
What can registered structure protection personnel expect before, during and after deployments?
Frequently asked questions
What is the zero tolerance policy, and does it apply if I am not staying at a BC Wildfire Service fire camp?
The BC Wildfire has a zero tolerance policy for consuming alcohol or drugs during deployment. This includes travel days to and from the incident, off-duty hours and when you are not staying at camp.
What does being self sufficient entail?
To be self sufficient means having enough equipment, personal items and food to withstand 48 hours independently. This is expected of each individual crew member. Further information is available within the Inter-Agency Agreement (PDF, 1MB).
Are meals and accommodation included during a deployment?
Typically, meals and accommodation are provided in a BC Wildfire Service sanctioned camp. Staying anywhere other than camp requires approval. If, however, crews must stay somewhere other than camp, they will be reimbursed for that accommodation - so hold onto receipts! In this case, meals will be reimbursed using the set per diem rates outlined in the Inter-Agency Agreement (PDF, 1MB). Any meals over the set per diem rate will not be covered.
Does the age of an apparatus affect how much I get reimbursed?
Apparatus 20 years or newer are reimbursed at 100 per cent. Any apparatus 21 years or older is reimbursed at 75 per cent. Older apparatus must pass an annual pump test and mechanical certification. A BC Wildfire Service representative may request documentation or current certification at anytime.
Do I bill for fuel used during deployments?
Fuel is included in the apparatus All-Found and Bare apparatus rates and will not be reimbursed separately. Details can be found in the Inter-Agency Agreement (PDF, 1MB).
For structure protection community funding, visit: FireSmart BC funding resoruces