About 300 Canadian troops arrive in Saskatchewan to support wildfire response, allowing local firefighters to focus on critical high-risk areas.
Military Support Arrives Amid Escalating Wildfires
Around 300 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) personnel were deployed to Saskatchewan this past weekend to support ongoing wildfire response efforts. The troops, primarily from the 3rd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry in Edmonton, are now operating in several wildfire-affected zones in the northern part of the province.
Strategic Relief for Frontline Firefighters
The military deployment was initiated to relieve overextended provincial firefighting teams, allowing trained Type 1 and 2 firefighters to focus on priority fire zones. “We’re taking pressure off public safety agencies so they can reorient and reprioritize,” said Lt.-Col. Jason Hudson from the central command post in Prince Albert, roughly 360 km northwest of Regina.
CAF troops are handling Type 3 firefighting duties—tasks such as mop-ups, digging ditches, and clearing debris in controlled or contained fire areas.
Coordinated Response in Multiple Hot Zones
Federal assistance was requested on July 23, and troops began arriving within hours to collaborate with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA). Soldiers are currently operating in four major zones, including Weyakwin, Green Lake, La Loche, and surrounding regions, with Prince Albert serving as the central coordination hub.
“This was one of the quickest domestic reactions I’ve witnessed,” Hudson noted, crediting the rapid joint response between federal and provincial agencies.
Community Safety Remains the Top Priority
With over 60 active wildfires in Saskatchewan, and more than 1.5 million hectares scorched, 12 communities remain under evacuation orders. Thousands have been displaced as authorities continue to monitor and respond to evolving threats.
CAF members have reiterated their commitment to staying on the ground as long as necessary. “Defence and safety of Canadians is our top priority,” Hudson emphasized. “Our troops are eager and energized to help. We’re here until we’re not needed anymore.”
Wildfire Outlook Remains Critical
So far in 2025, Saskatchewan has recorded 404 wildfires—well above the five-year average of 328 for this point in the season. With hot, dry conditions persisting, officials warn that the situation remains volatile and that the combined efforts of civilian agencies and military support are essential to controlling the spread and ensuring public safety.
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