Wildfire preparedness in Alberta

Apr. 29, 2024, Edmonton, Alta. – Alberta’s government is preparing for the upcoming wildfire season following unprecedented wildfires in 2023 that impacted communities across the province. Significant investments are being made to the province’s wildfire prevention, preparedness, and response to ensure Alberta’s government can help communities prepare for the 2024 wildfire season.

The addition of two airtanker groups and two new night-vision equipped helicopters will increase the effectiveness of Alberta Wildfire’s initial attack, sustained action and suppression efforts. Airtankers play a crucial role in limiting the spread when a wildfire breaks out, allowing ground crews to break up fuel sources and fully extinguish the wildfire.

The combination of additional airtankers and night vision helicopters will also contribute to Alberta’s enhanced night operations, which was piloted during the 2023 wildfire season, allowing for nighttime heli-tanking and improved suppression efforts. Wildfire behaviour is typically more subdued at night, as temperatures are usually lower and humidity is higher, leading to increased ability and possibility to extinguish fires.