PEI wildland firefighters heading to Yukon
Ten forest firefighters from the Island are headed to Yukon to help with the wildfire situation.
The Government of Prince Edward Island has more than 55 staff trained in wildland firefighting, including foresters, forest technicians, wildlife technicians, and others who have fire response as part of their duties.
PEI maintains mutual aid agreements with all Canadian provinces and territories, administered through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. The province is also an active member in the Northeastern Forest Fire Protection Compact with many US states. These agreements provide PEI with access to mutual aid when it is required.
In Prince Edward Island, over 90 per cent of recorded wildland fires have been human caused and could have been prevented. These fires may have been started by leaving campfires unattended, negligently disposing of cigarettes, or other human activities. It is crucial for all residents and visitors to be cautious with outdoor fires.
Wildland firefighter students have had the opportunity to join professional crews during these missions, which builds local capacity and helps the students develop their skills. Student Patrick Duguay said, “It’s amazing to have this opportunity to learn and work in wildfire, both helping neighbours on PEI and travelling across the country when others are in need. I never thought I would have these experiences as a student, but this program has been rewarding.”
Residents planning to burn brush outdoors must check for burning restrictions daily by calling
1-800-237-5053 or visiting the province’s Burning Restrictions webpage. Campfires do not require burn permits, but people should check for fire restrictions before starting a campfire.
Municipalities may also have their own bylaws that restrict burning, so residents should also check with their local authority.
Island residents can learn more about protecting homes from forest fires at FireSmart.
Media contact:
Katie Cudmore
Department of Environment, Energy, and Climate Action
katiecudmore@gov.pe.ca