BC Wildfire Service holds moment of silence for firefighter killed last year

Members of the BC Wildfire Service held a moment of silence Saturday to mark one year since losing one of their own.

Last summer, 19-year-old firefighter Devyn Gale died while responding to a wildfire near Revelstoke.

“At 11 a.m. PDT, all members of the BC Wildfire Service, and our partners supporting us in the field, will down tools and observe a moment of silence to remember and honour our colleague, Devyn Gale, who died in the line of duty on July 13 last year,” the service posted on X.

“This moment is for Devyn, but it is also for the many brave and selfless wildland firefighters, first responders, and aviators who have tragically lost their lives while supporting wildfire operations over the years.”

Gale was caught under a fallen tree while she was out with other firefighters clearing brush within the area where a small fire had started.

She was airlifted to the hospital but died of her injuries.

Minister of Forests Bruce Ralston says the province is grateful for the extraordinary work done by wildland firefighters, and says Gale’s death is a reminder to do everything we can to keep them safe.

“Every day during wildfire season, our firefighting crews work long, demanding hours to protect communities,” Ralston said.

“Fighting wildfires day-after-day take a toll, both physically and mentally, which is why we are enhancing access to physical and mental health supports, increasing personal protective gear, and strengthening recruitment and training.”

In 2023, Gale’s death prompted responses from the premier and prime minister, with David Eby calling it a “tragic incident” and a “tremendous loss.”

Gale’s brother described her as a thoughtful, kind, and “amazing sister.”

On Saturday, the BC Wildfire Service said everyone who puts on a red shirt does so in Devyn’s honour.

“Stay safe, look after one another, come home,” it said.

— With files from Hana Mae Nassar