New Brunswick officials are confident that they are well-prepared for this year’s fire season, with a full contingent of 143 trained firefighters, 24 student recruits, and an additional two water bombers. Despite the province’s 10-year average of 246 fires per year, last year saw a below-average number of fires but with a significantly larger area of forest burned. Environment Minister Mike Holland emphasized the importance of having a well-equipped team ready at a moment’s notice to ensure the safety of residents in the province.
Roger Collet, a wildfire prevention officer, highlighted the province’s readiness with a team of trained firefighters and student recruits, as well as an increased number of aircraft for water delivery compared to the previous year. While New Brunswick has sufficient resources for the current fire season, Collet noted that additional help may be required in the event of a particularly severe season, as seen in neighboring provinces like Nova Scotia where unprecedented wildfires forced thousands of people out of their homes and destroyed numerous structures.
The trend of more frequent and intense wildfires in New Brunswick has become a cause for concern, according to Collet. The devastation caused by wildfires last year was described as unprecedented, signaling the urgent need for attention and action to address the growing threat. The province’s fire season typically starts in mid-April and progresses from the south to the north as the summer months unfold. While the winter saw significant precipitation in the form of rain, rather than snow, there is a possibility of grass fires emerging earlier than usual.
Federal Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson highlighted the nationwide risk of wildfires due to a combination of above-average temperatures and limited rain and snow, creating drought-like conditions in many areas of Canada. The impact of climate change, coupled with population growth in urban areas near combustible forests, is contributing to an increased risk of wildfires. Wilkinson pointed out that nearly four million Canadians live in regions prone to wildfires, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact of these natural disasters.
Overall, the Canadian Press report underscores the importance of preparedness and resource allocation in addressing the escalating risk of wildfires in New Brunswick and across the country. With a focus on training firefighters, enhancing firefighting capabilities, and coordinating efforts at the provincial and federal levels, authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of residents in the face of an evolving wildfire threat. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the likelihood of extreme wildfire seasons, proactive measures and effective response strategies are essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the devastating effects of wildfires.
