A team of 40 Alberta wildland firefighters departed Edmonton on Monday to assist in battling the devastating wildfires in California.
The move comes after the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre received a request for assistance from California, which has been ravaged by fast-moving wildfires fueled by dry conditions and powerful winds.
The fires have already destroyed approximately 12,000 homes and buildings, claiming lives and displacing thousands. The death toll stands at 24.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her support for the deployment, saying, "Our hearts go out to everyone in California who has been impacted due to the devastating fires. Good neighbours are always there for each other in times of need, and we will assist our American friends in any way they need during this crisis."
The Alberta government is sending two fully equipped wildfire crews, including the 40 wildland firefighters and two agency representatives. California's wildfire management agency will determine where the Alberta crews are deployed.
Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks, noted that Alberta has experience and expertise in battling wildfires, having faced its own record-breaking wildfire season in 2023.
"In 2023, California firefighters bravely supported Alberta in a time of great need. Now, Alberta is answering the call and has stepped up to assist our neighbours."
Alberta is also preparing additional resources, including water bombers, pilots, and contracted night vision helicopters, to assist in California if needed.
The deployment is a reciprocal gesture, as 115 firefighters and support staff from California came to help Alberta's wildfire response in 2023.