On March 16, 2026, the Province of British Columbia officially launched its readiness plan for the 2026 wildfire season to protect residents in communities like Dawson Creek, British Columbia. The province is focusing on getting emergency crews and local infrastructure ready to handle potential fire risks before the peak summer heat arrives.
The BC Wildfire Service has reached record-high recruitment levels for the upcoming season, receiving about 2,400 applications for seasonal firefighting positions. Minister of Forests Ravi Parmar highlighted that the province is shifting toward year-round readiness to better protect people and property throughout the year.
To help northern communities, a new $21-million equipment depot in Prince George is now operational for the 2026 season. This facility allows firefighting gear and supplies to be stored closer to home, making it easier to move equipment through the region and improve response times for areas like Dawson Creek.
These measures are being put in place as Environment Canada predicts 2026 could be one of the hottest years on record. For the Peace River region, where dry conditions can increase fire risks, these provincial investments aim to provide better protection for public safety and local infrastructure before the high-risk summer months.
