The Canadian Armed Forces is preparing to send up to 1,400 personnel, including a firefighting force and integral logistics support, to help fight fires in Saskatchewan.
Also, CFB Cold Lake (4 Wing) is providing additional housing for evacuated residents.
A general evacuation of the town of La Ronge, village of Air ronge and Lac La Ronge Indian Band was ordered Saturday.
According to the Saskatchewan government, this evacuation has been triggered by a number of wildfires in the area, which are blowing smoke and particulate matter into and around the communities.
Affected residents were transported to Cold Lake.
The Government of Saskatchewan’s Wildfire Management Branch has deployed additional assets to protect the community’s homes and infrastructure from encroaching fires.
Travel to the La Ronge area is restricted while the evacuation is in progress and the threat from smoke and wildfire remains.
Saskatchewan made a request for assistance Saturday to the Government of Canada, asking for CAF support to provincial efforts in response to wildfires in northern areas of the province.
According to a CAF press release, before CAF personnel are sent to fight fires, they will be appropriately equipped and receive required training for fighting wildfires. They will continue to assist with firefighting efforts until provincial authorities can handle the situation.
The CAF continues to closely monitor the situation and work in direct partnership with other federal, provincial, and municipal partners in order to provide the best support possible, the release states
“The Canadian Armed Forces always stands ready to offer assistance in support of civilian authorities during any crisis in Canada, including natural disasters,” states Jason Kenney, minister of National Defence.
“ I am proud of the efforts our members are making to help those affected by the wildfires in Saskatchewan. This is yet another example of how the men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces consider it their highest duty and privilege to help Canadians in need, whenever and wherever required.”
