Intense wildfires in Southern California emphasize the need for global cooperation in disaster response, as highlighted by SOPFEU. The organization is pursuing new international partnerships to improve wildfire management. Mutual aid has become vital, as shown by the deployment of American firefighters to Quebec. Recently, the U.S. Forest Service requested additional water bombers to combat potential fire outbreaks. A dedicated team is preparing to assist, showcasing the commitment to helping communities in need.
The Importance of Global Cooperation in Combating Wildfires
The intense wildfires currently sweeping through Southern California highlight the necessity of intergovernmental agreements in the battle against such disasters, as stated by SOPFEU. The organization is proactively seeking to establish new global partnerships to enhance wildfire response efforts.
Mutual Aid: A Crucial Component in Wildfire Management
According to Luc Dugas, Senior Director of Strategic and Aerial Operations at SOPFEU, even the largest firefighting agency, Cal Fire, cannot tackle these emergencies single-handedly. “Mutual aid has become essential with climate change, and we are in negotiations to find other partners,” he explains. Recently, two CL-415 water bombers were prepared for deployment at the request of the U.S. government. Dugas emphasized that without the assistance of 600 American firefighters who were deployed in June 2023 to combat a massive fire in Lebel-sur-Quévillon, the largest fire in the province’s history could have resulted in far greater devastation. “We are returning the favor. While there is currently no request for sending firefighters, we are ready if needed,” he reassures.
Last week, Martin Nolin, the director of the water bomber maintenance service at the Government Air Service (SAG), received an unexpected request from the U.S. Forest Service for two additional CL-415 aircraft within a week to help prevent new fire outbreaks around Los Angeles County. “I took an hour or two to think and analyze if we were capable,” he recalls with a smile. By January 9, the team was preparing the first plane, and they were ready for takeoff in less than a week, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the entire team.
“The whole team pitched in. We all worked over the weekend to be ready. […] That’s why I work at SAG: to assist different communities in need. I think we all share this mindset,” adds François Lapierre, a maintenance technician.
The journey for the six Quebecers traveling to assist in the wildfire efforts will be extensive. They will first land in Columbus, Ohio, for U.S. customs, then spend the night in St. Louis, Minnesota, before making another stop in Boise, Idaho, for an aircraft inspection. If everything goes smoothly, they will arrive at Van Nuys Airport, near Los Angeles, on Saturday.