A wildfire in the Grande Prairie district, photo taken May 6, 2023. (Photo: Canadian Press)

By David Opinko

Military called in to assist in Alberta wildfire response

May 11, 2023 | 9:51 AM

DRAYTON VALLEY, AB – The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has been deployed to the locations of various wildfires across Alberta.

According to a release from the Government of Alberta, troops from 3rd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (3PPCLI) and 1 Combat Engineer Regiment (1CER) are moving out of their established bases and will be deployed to the Grande Prairie, Fox Creek, and Drayton Valley areas.

The province said Albertans will see military members moved by vehicles on roads and in the air, as some forces and equipment will be moved by Royal Canadian Air Forced fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.

“The capabilities the CAF can bring to support Alberta are firefighting support to aid in mop-up operations and basic firefighting duties,” reads a media release from the government. “Airlift resources for increased mobility and logistical responsibilities, such as evacuating isolated communities, will also be provided. Engineering support will be provided where required, incorporating heavy equipment resources.”

The CAF and Alberta Emergency Management Agency have been working together to determine where members are needed the most.

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As of this publication, there are 82 active wildfires across Alberta, including 23 that are classified as “out of control.”

Thousands of people remain out of their homes due to the fire risk, but in Yellowhead County, west of Edmonton, residents are returning to the communities of Hansonville, Lobstick Resort and Wildwood.

Indigenous Services Canada reports fires are threatening nine First Nations, including the Little Red River Cree Nation, where more than 100 structures have been lost in the community of Fox Creek.

Emergency financial aid is available to Albertans who have been displaced from their homes for at least seven consecutive days due to wildfires.

Officials with the Alberta government say eligible evacuees will receive $1,250 per adult and an additional $500 per dependent child under 18 years. This means that an evacuated family of four will receive $3,500.

Evacuees can apply for the payment at alberta.ca/emergency using an Alberta.ca Account. Funds can take up to 24 hours to flow into accounts and will be disbursed via e-transfer. Evacuees who are unable to receive an e-transfer or who cannot apply online can contact 310-4455 for assistance and to make alternate payment arrangements.

The province is hosting daily telephone town halls to provide residents with updates on the wildfire situation and answer any questions. The town halls occur each day, starting at 7:30 p.m., until at least Sunday, May 14, 2023.

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