Fighting California Wildfires

Canadian Firefighters in California

When wildfires ravage California, Canadian firefighters have regularly answered the call to help their American neighbours.

Throughout the years, hundreds of Canadian firefighters and support personnel have traveled south to battle some of California's most devastating wildfires. This cross-border cooperation demonstrates the deep bonds between our countries and our shared commitment to protecting communities and wilderness areas.

In 2018, during one of California's worst fire seasons, over 200 firefighters from British Columbia, Alberta, and other provinces joined the effort to contain massive blazes threatening homes and lives. They brought expertise in wildland firefighting tactics and specialized equipment.

This assistance is part of a reciprocal relationship. When Canadian provinces face their own wildfire emergencies, American firefighters often travel north to help contain the blazes. This mutual aid agreement has been in place for decades and represents one of the many ways our nations support each other in times of need.

The sight of Canadian firefighters working alongside their American counterparts embodies the spirit of cross-border cooperation that goes beyond politics and trade disputes.