WOF firefighters arrive back in Mbombela after battling Canadian wildfires
The deployments of firefighters in Canada highlight the critical role that the WOF programme plays in South Africa, as well as its contribution to international firefighting efforts.
Another group of Working on Fire (WOF) firefighters returned home to a hero’s welcome on July 20, after a 35-day fire suppression mission to combat wildfires in Alberta, Canada.
WOF sent more than 200 firefighters and 15 managers to Canada where wildfires are raging out of control. This group left in June and completed its mission with zero injuries.
The high commissioner of Canada in South Africa, Chris Cooter, said the teams had demonstrated dedication and exceptional firefighting skills while assisting Canadian firefighters and communities facing a devastating season. He said their spirit, positivity, professionalism and humanitarian efforts earned them widespread gratitude from both the authorities and people they had served.
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“These deployments highlight the critical role played by the WOF programme in South Africa and its contribution to international firefighting efforts. It also reaffirms the effectiveness of the organisation’s, Kishugu Joint Venture, expertise in integrated fire management and proved that international collaboration is key to addressing the burning issue of climate change and global warming,” he said.
A new group of WOF members departed from KMI Airport on July 25, in high spirits and ready to further provide aid to Canadian wildfire authorities. This latest group to be deployed brings the total number of firefighters and managers deployed to Canada to more than 600 and, according to Cooter, this will bolster the ongoing international joint firefighting efforts across Alberta.
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“The first two teams, which left for Canada in June, had garnered high praise from their international peers. They showcased their specialised skill set, high safety standards and determination to save lives and protect the environment,” he said.
Finally, Cooter said the WOF programme’s impact extends beyond SA’s borders as evidenced by these deployments and demonstrated the global recognition of the organisation’s special skills and willingness to collaborate on an international scale.
