Alberta Wildfire received a request to assist California through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. Alberta’s government is sending two fully equipped wildfire crews, including 40 wildland firefighters and two agency representatives. The teams departed Edmonton on Monday, Jan. 13 and are expected to arrive in California within the next few days.

“Our hearts go out to everyone in California who has been impacted due to the devastating fires. Good neighbours are always there for each other in times of need, and we will assist our American friends in any way they need during this crisis. We are sending 40 highly skilled and experienced wildland firefighters to assist in the response efforts. Alberta remains committed to providing support and expertise to help protect lives, property and communities.”

“In 2023, California firefighters bravely supported Alberta in a time of great need. Now, Alberta is answering the call and has stepped up to assist our neighbours. I have spoken directly to Cal Fire and to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to assure them that Alberta is prepared to support them in their ongoing efforts. Alberta has experience and expertise in battling wildfires, and we’re committed to supporting our friends and partners in the United States.”

California’s wildfire management agency will determine where the Alberta crews are deployed.

Additional Type 1 firefighters, Incident Command personnel, and qualified support staff are ready to go, if requested. Alberta Wildfire is also preparing water bombers, pilots, and contracted night vision helicopters to assist in California, if needed.

Quick fact

• During Alberta’s record-breaking wildfire season in 2023, 115 firefighters and support staff from California came to help Alberta’s wildfire response.

From Danielle Smith on X

Over the last 24 hours I had the opportunity to meet President @realdonaldtrump at Mar-a-Lago last night and at his golf club this morning. We had a friendly and constructive conversation during which I emphasized the mutual importance of the U.S. – Canadian energy relationship, and specifically, how hundreds of thousands of American jobs are supported by energy exports from Alberta.

I was also able to have similar discussions with several key allies of the incoming administration and was encouraged to hear their support for a strong energy and security relationship with Canada.

On behalf of Albertans, I will continue to engage in constructive dialogue and diplomacy with the incoming administration and elected federal and state officials from both parties, and will do all I can to further Alberta’s and Canada’s interests.

The United States and Canada are both proud and independent nations with one of the most important security alliances on earth and the largest economic partnership in history. We need to preserve our independence while we grow this critical partnership for the benefit of Canadians and Americans for generations to come.