More international support arrives to fight B.C. wildfires

More than 100 experienced wildland firefighters from Mexico have arrived in B.C. to help battle the province’s ongoing wildfire season. The extra crews will provide relief for exhausted firefighters. Joe Sadowski has more.

Premier David Eby was at Abbotsford International Airport on Thursday morning to welcome another wave of international wildfire personnel arriving to assist with British Columbia’s ongoing wildfire response.

“This week, we are grateful to welcome a second wave of firefighters from Mexico, as well as crews from Australia and New Zealand,” Eby said.

“They will join personnel from Alberta, Quebec and the Yukon, demonstrating the strong partnerships that exist across borders when communities are facing emergencies.”



The arrival follows Monday’s welcome ceremony, when Forests Minister Ravi Parmar greeted 100 wildfire personnel from Mexico at the same airport.

“Wildfire response is built on teamwork,” Parmar said. “Whether support comes from within B.C., across Canada or around the world, every person who joins the effort strengthens our response capacity and helps ensure resources are available when and where they are needed most.”

Eby said the province is facing a number of complex wildfires and that the expertise being brought in from around the world will be a valuable addition to the BC Wildfire Service’s efforts.

“Wildfire conditions are challenging in many parts of the province, and we are bracing for difficult conditions in the weeks ahead,” Eby said.

“The additional people and resources arriving this week will help strengthen our response as crews continue their tireless work.”

More than 100 wildfires are currently burning across British Columbia.

“In the face of these challenges, communities are coming together to help those most affected,” Eby said. “I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who is stepping up and working around the clock to protect people throughout our province.”

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