LAC LA BICHE – The Fire Smart program has been very successful in mitigating wildfire risks in the Lac La Biche area, says John Kokotilo, the regional fire chief for Lac La Biche County.  The program is administered in Alberta municipalities and nationwide to teach homeowners how to protect their properties from the risk of wildfire, Lac La Biche County Fire Services conducts free home assessments and free wood chipping services for residents as part of the program.  Kokotilo says many folks have signed up, and interest in the program is growing. “So far this year we have 150 assessments and 35 wood chipping appointments, and we are still getting requests, it’s ongoing,” he told Lakeland This Week on July 22 as the wildfire hazard across the region was listed as Extreme.