A graduate student from the University of Alberta is gathering input from residents in West Kelowna and Cranbrook on how they respond to prescribed fire and the smoke it produces.
Sandani Siriwardhana is conducting the study in partnership with Dr. Tara McGee, an expert in the human dimensions of hazard research.
The goal, she says, is to better understand how people perceive and prepare for smoke from planned burns, a growing wildfire mitigation tool in B.C.
“Prescribed fire is increasingly recognized as an important tool for reducing wildfire risk,” said Siriwardhana.
“As its use becomes more widespread, it’s natural that communities will have a range of opinions about it. These perspectives deserve to be heard and considered.”
The study is being conducted through an anonymous online survey open to anyone 18 or older living in West Kelowna or Cranbrook.
Siriwardhana said the survey aims to capture public views on controlled burning, levels of preparedness for smoke events, and what protective actions residents take.
Findings will be shared with academic and non-academic audiences, including the BC Wildfire Service and other agencies involved in fire management and communication planning.
She hopes the results will help support community engagement strategies and inform policy development.
Using an online survey was chosen as an eco-friendly and accessible way to reach more residents, she added.
The survey is currently available online and will remain open for responses until posted: Cranbrook & West Kelowna Prescribed Fire Survey.
