Bragg Creek residents, business owners, concerned about potential wildfires

In the wake of a devastating wildfire situation in Alberta, there’s a growing level of concern in Bragg Creek about the possibility of a wildfire in the small hamlet 30 minutes west of Calgary.

Many are watching the horrific situation unfold in Jasper, and much like that community, Bragg Creek is surrounded by forests.

“We’re a little nervous here,” one resident told CityNews.

“We’ve got a lot of trees and wildlife around us and of course, it could just be a lightning strike at any moment that starts something.”

An insurance agent says the town has seen some close calls over the years.

“I’ve got a lot of clients who are anxious, to say the least,” he said.

In an update on Friday afternoon, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said 30 per cent of the Jasper townsite has been damaged and officials confirmed close to 360 structures have been destroyed.

However, Bragg Creek residents say they aren’t taking any chances.

Many tell CityNews they have already begun thinking about packing an emergency kit, as well as taking steps to fireproof their homes in case they’re asked to leave at a moment’s notice.

Fire Chief Rob Evans with Redwood Meadows Emergency Services says he’s pleased to hear community members stepping up and doing their part to fire smart the perimeter around their homes and businesses.”

“You can’t force anyone to do anything on their own property, but we want people to do is be smart be fire smart, and I think people around here get it,” he explained.

Evans adds that 30 volunteer firefighters are prepared to jump into action at any given moment.

“So we are always ready. We do have crews on weekends that actually standby at the firehouse so we’re ready 24/7, 365,” he said.