4 days ago
P.E.I. wildland firefighters to help in Saskatchewan, Manitoba
Firefighters and forestry staff from Prince Edward Island have made their way out west to help with the wildfire situation. (Source: P.E.I. government)
Firefighters and forestry staff from Prince Edward Island have made their way out west to help with the wildfire situation.
P.E.I. has mutual aid agreements with all Canadian provinces and territories, administered through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, and has sent 10 forest firefighters to Saskatchewan and two forestry staff to Manitoba.
The province says it continues to be in a 'good position' to respond to forest fires inside or outside P.E.I., with more than 55 staff trained in wildland firefighting.
'Our wildland firefighters have been working hard to prepare for this type of deployment, and we are very proud of their progress. On behalf of Islanders, I thank these individuals for their efforts,' said Environment, Energy and Climate Action Minister Gilles Arsenault in a news release from the province.
The province is reminding Islanders to keep forest fire prevention top of mind, saying over 90 per cent of wildland fires have been caused by humans.
'It is crucial for all residents and visitors to be cautious with outdoor fires,' reads the release.
Before burning brush outdoors, residents are required to check for burning restrictions with their local authority and on the province's Burning Restrictions webpage or by calling 1-800-237-5053.
'Campfires do not require burn permits, but people should check for fire restrictions before starting a campfire,' reads the release.
For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
