The Province of British Columbia is increasing its wildfire response for the 2026 season to better protect residents in Prince Rupert and across the region. On March 16, 2026, officials announced new investments in staffing and technology to prepare for the upcoming warmer months.
According to BC Gov News, the BC Wildfire Service received a record 2,400 applications for seasonal firefighter positions. This hiring boost was helped by new recruitment efforts, including specialized training camps for First Nations communities.
The province also invested $14 million in new gear, including more trucks and 10 mobile units that help protect buildings from flames. A new $21 million equipment hub in Prince George will be used to quickly send supplies to fire crews throughout the province.
To help find and track fires faster, the service is expanding its use of night-vision technology for aircraft and using advanced computer programs to predict fire behaviour. Ravi Parmar, the Minister of Forests, says these tools are part of a shift toward year-round staffing to handle the growing threat of wildfires.
