FREDERICTON (GNB) – A second group of New Brunswick firefighters is travelling to British Columbia to help battle forest fires in that province.
A 20-person fire crew, along with a ranger and a safety officer from the Department of Energy and Resource Development, leaves today for Kamloops. A pump mechanic left for Prince George on Saturday, July 15.
Last week, the department sent a 22-person crew to the same region to help relieve crews that have been dealing with the fires.
“Our firefighters are going to work knowing they are making a difference to our neighbours on the west coast,” said Energy and Resource Development Minister Rick Doucet. “We are proud of their level of commitment and service. They are a great crew and we wish them a safe and successful mission.”
New Brunswick is a member of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, which helps co-ordinate mutual aid among provinces and often co-ordinates the sharing of resources with the United States and other countries.
Last year, New Brunswick sent 77 firefighters to provide assistance in Alberta and Nova Scotia.
18-07-17