Results for: Wildfire Management

Evacuation alerts have been expanded to include several new communities as firefighters battle strong winds and a growing wildfire near Fort McMurray, Alberta. The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) has expanded its alert to include Fort McMurray, Saprae Creek, Anzac, Fort McMurray First Nation #468, Gregoire Lake Estates, and Rickards Landing Industrial Park due to the risk of wildfire. The wildfire, which has grown to over 1,400 hectares, remains out of control and is located 16 km southwest of Fort McMurray on the south side of the Athabasca River valley. Five crews of wildland firefighters, nine helicopters, and air tankers are working to contain the blaze. Residents in affected areas are advised to be prepared to evacuate on short notice. The latest evacuation information can be found on the Alberta Emergency Alert website.

Joe Zatylny, who recently resigned as chief of Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, has been hired by the province of Alberta as an assistant deputy minister (ADM) or deputy managing director within the Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA). This new role was identified as a need after last year’s unprecedented wildfire season, which prompted a province-wide state of emergency. Zatylny was the most qualified candidate for the job due to his extensive experience as fire chief for a large urban center.

Alberta’s Bill 21 proposes moving the fixed election date to October, updating emergency response policies, and enhancing wildfire management authority. Emergency Management Act changes allow the province to assume control of local responses in extreme circumstances, strengthening coordination. The Forest and Prairie Protection Act amendments expand the province’s authority in wildfire emergencies, including the ability to direct firefighting efforts on all provincial lands. Modifications to the Water Act enhance the province’s ability to respond to water-related emergencies, such as drought or flood.

In response to the devastating wildfire season of 2023, Saskatchewan is investing in a new fleet of four repurposed land-based airtanker aircraft to enhance its wildfire management capabilities. These aircraft will replace the aging current fleet, which has been in operation for over two decades. The Conair 8-Q400At planes are dedicated airtankers designed for dispersing fire retardant, while the 8-Q400MRE will serve multiple purposes, including passenger evacuation and cargo transport.