Canadians join the fight against Los Angeles-area wildfires

The wildfires raging through the Los Angeles area have prompted a massive response from firefighting aircraft provided by the Quebec government and a B.C.-based company. These aircraft, including Canadian-made water-bombing planes from Quebec and Coulson Aviation helicopters, are playing a crucial role in battling the flames.

Coulson Aviation, based in Port Alberni, B.C., has deployed its helicopters to the frontline of the fight against the Palisades fires. The company’s crews are facing high winds and challenging conditions as they work tirelessly to contain the blazes. Images from the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood show firefighters confronting massive flames as residents evacuate amidst the chaos.

The company’s fleet includes a double-rotor Chinook and a smaller Sikorsky S-76 helicopter, contracted with local utility Southern California Edison. These aircraft are directly serving Los Angeles, Orange, and Ventura counties, and were among the first responders to the wildfires. Coulson’s CEO, Wayne Coulson, stated that his crews have been dispatched to several fires across the L.A. area and are supporting ground crews as needed.

Despite the relentless spread of the fires, no official requests for support have been made from Canada. B.C. Minister of Forests Ravi Parmar expressed solidarity with the people of Los Angeles and assured that British Columbia is prepared to provide assistance if needed. Similarly, Quebec’s Transport Department confirmed that two Quebec government planes have been actively involved in firefighting efforts since Tuesday.

The Canadian-made CL-415 firefighting planes are part of an annual contract dating back to 1994, which sees them deployed to California each fall. These planes are equipped with their own pilots, co-pilots, and technicians to ensure effective firefighting operations. Quebec Public Security Minister François Bonnardel extended a message of support to California Governor Gavin Newsom, offering additional firefighters from Quebec if required.

The ongoing wildfires have stretched emergency services to their limits, with thousands of firefighters battling multiple blazes across the Los Angeles area. The NHL even postponed a game between the Los Angeles Kings and the Calgary Flames to prioritize the safety of fans, staff, and players. The Kings expressed gratitude for the hard-working first responders who are working tirelessly to contain the fires and protect the community.

As the wildfires continue to pose a threat to homes and lives, the efforts of firefighting aircraft and ground crews are crucial in mitigating the impact of the disaster. The collaboration between Canadian and American firefighting teams highlights the importance of international cooperation in times of crisis.