Whereas the province of British Columbia is prone to wildfires, which pose significant threats to public safety, communities, property, and the environment, and where climate change has contributed to an increase in the frequency, intensity, and severity of wildfires, thereby placing an unprecedented strain on available firefighting equipment; And whereas the Provincial Government has the responsibility to ensure that the BC Wildfire Service has adequate resources, including equipment, to effectively respond to and manage wildfires to safeguard lives, protect infrastructure, and preserve the natural environment, and where the effectiveness and efficiency of the BC Wildfire Services operations in the containment of wildfires heavily depend on the availability of adequate equipment and resources: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask that the Provincial Government take immediate action to ensure that BC Wildfire is provided with all available firefighting equipment, including Coulson Aviations Next Gen fire suppression equipment, and any other available Canadian company with aviation firefighting equipment, to combat wildfires during increased demand during peak wildfire seasons; And be it further resolved that the provincial government explore partnerships with federal agencies, neighboring provinces, and available contractors to enhance equipment sharing and mutual aid agreements, ensuring a more robust response to wildfires and promoting regional collaboration in firefighting efforts.
