Alberta has introduced a new program that allows people to offer their skills or heavy equipment to help battle wildfires. During last year’s intense wildfire season, many Albertans wanted to help protect their homes and communities. The program, called the wildfire reservist program, was formally introduced this year after steps were taken to manage offers of help last season. People can sign up for the program on the Alberta Wildfire website under the “How you can help” section. Those who are interested will receive training and must pass a fitness test in order to become emergency firefighters if needed. There are also non-firefighting support positions available such as data entry, camp supervisors, and cargo loaders.
Applicants for the wildfire reservist program are asked to provide information about their location, preferred forest area, availability, related experience, previous training, and equipment availability. While Alberta Wildfire has not yet needed to call on reservists for the current wildfire situation, they want to ensure that people are trained and ready to be deployed if needed. Once individuals register their interest through the website, there is an internal process to evaluate and assign them to specific roles. Alberta Wildfire also offers contracting opportunities for those with heavy equipment, aircraft, or other specialized equipment or services to assist with wildfire response.
For the latest information about which areas in Alberta are under evacuation alerts or orders due to wildfires, individuals can visit the Alberta Emergency Alert website. Those looking for updates on wildfire status and danger across the province can visit the Alberta Wildfire website. Information on fire advisories, restrictions, and bans can be found on the Alberta fire bans website. The wildfire reservist program is part of Alberta’s efforts to better manage offers of help during wildfire season and ensure that resources are available when needed. By formalizing the process, Alberta is able to mobilize additional support to assist with wildfire containment and protection of communities.
The program has received significant interest from individuals eager to help in any way they can, whether through their skills or equipment. Alberta Wildfire aims to provide necessary training to those who sign up for the program in order to ensure they are prepared for any potential deployment. While the current wildfire situation does not require the assistance of reservists, having a pool of trained individuals ready to step in when needed enhances Alberta’s wildfire response capabilities. By actively engaging with the public and encouraging them to be part of the wildfire response efforts, Alberta is creating a collaborative approach to wildfire management that involves both trained professionals and community members.
In addition to the wildfire reservist program, Alberta Wildfire also offers contracting opportunities for those with specific equipment or services that can support wildfire response efforts. This includes heavy equipment operators, aircraft pilots, and others with specialized skills. By expanding the pool of resources available for wildfire response, Alberta is better equipped to handle the challenges of unpredictable wildfires. By providing clear information on evacuation alerts, wildfire status, and fire bans, Alberta Wildfire is keeping residents informed and prepared for potential wildfire threats. The wildfire reservist program is a proactive step towards engaging the community in wildfire prevention and response efforts, ensuring that the province has the support it needs to protect its residents and natural resources.
