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Ontario prepared to lend support to combat California wildfires

By CJ Goater Jan 14, 2025 | 2:56 PM

CL-415 water bombers (Supplied photo via Ministry of Natural Resources)

Ontario is prepared to lend a helping hand to California, which is dealing with rampant wildfires around Los Angeles.

“Our thoughts are with the people and brave wildland fire and emergency workers who are fighting the devastating wildland fires in California,” said the Minister of Natural Resources for Ontario, Graydon Smith. “Ontario stands ready to support our neighbours to the south, and will provide aircraft, personnel and equipment needed to support California.”

Incident Command System personnel, wildland and urban firefighters, and associated equipment are ready on standby for deployment within 24-48 hours if requested.

In total 165 volunteers and approximately 120 kg of equipment per person is ready.

The waterbombers are set to head to B.C. on Wednesday.

Canadian agencies, including the Canadian Armed Forces, the Canadian Coast Guard, Global Affairs Canada, and Natural Resources Canada, are actively engaged in discussions with the United States Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. National Interagency Coordination Center (NICC), and the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and the City of Los Angeles to determine how best to assist in the response and recovery efforts.

“Canada stands in solidarity with the people of California as they face the devastating impact of these wildfires,” said the Federal Minister of Emergency Preparedness, Harjit Sajjan. “Just as our friends and neighbours supported us during our own challenging wildfire season, Team Canada is ready to reciprocate that support.”

“Our federal and provincial partners are actively mobilizing resources, including specialized crews, aircraft, and logistical support, to assist where needed. We are committed to working closely with our American counterparts to provide effective and timely aid during this difficult time.”