A new report concludes the widespread destruction of homes in the Fort McMurray wildfire was largely preventable. "The total number of homes lost at Fort McMurray would have been far fewer if there had been more widespread adoption of FireSmart risk-reduction practices by homeowners," according to the report by the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction. The Fort McMurray wildfire in early May burned more than 2,400 structures and nearly 600,000 hectares of forest. In his report, Westhaver said he "discounted" direct contact from flames or radiant heat of the forest fire as being "significant sources" of home ignition. "We all recognize that this is an unbelievable tragedy for the residents of Fort McMurray," Westhaver said.

Source: CBC News August 26, 2016 13:07 UTC