Nunavut joins Canada-wide firefighting network
While territory is above treeline, tundra fires can cause problems
Volunteer firefighter Kristen Haven shows how to use a fire extinguisher in front of Abe Okpik Hall in Apex during fire prevention week in October. Nunavut firefighters now have access to new training opportunities after the territory joined the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre this spring. (File photo by Arty Sarkisian)
Nunavut is a step ahead of tundra fire season now that the territory has joined the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre Inc.
While wildfires have historically been uncommon in Nunavut — with the vast majority of the territory above the treeline — changing environmental conditions are increasing the likelihood of fire in areas not previously affected.
Nunavut declared a state of emergency in August 2023 after about 1.5 square kilometres of Arctic tundra went up in flames in a seasonally inhabited area on Bathurst Inlet.
“This partnership connects us to a national network of expertise and resources, while ensuring Nunavut has a voice in how wildfire response is co-ordinated across the country,” said Community Services Minister Craig Simailak Monday in a news release.
“It is an important step in building resilience.”
Established in 1982 to formalize the sharing of resources and information among fire management agencies across Canada, the nonprofit, Winnipeg-based centre supports member agencies to prepare and respond to wildfires.
During periods of high fire risk, the centre matches up agencies to facilitate the sharing of aircraft, personnel, and equipment.
Nunavut’s membership also provides the territory with operational expertise and training opportunities, the release said.
Nunavut is the last province or territory to join the centre.
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