From Fire Lookout to Firefighter: Fighting Canada’s Worst Wildfire Seasons with New Technologies

Trina Moyles, a journalist, photographer, and creative producer who spent seven seasons working as a fire lookout near Peace River, Alta., has witnessed some of Canada’s worst wildfire seasons. She has seen firsthand the stress of watching communities threatened by advancing wildfires from the tower. Moyles published a memoir titled Lookout about her experience in this challenging role.

Last year marked Canada’s worst wildfire season on record, prompting fire chiefs from across the country to request more financial assistance in Ottawa. The federal government responded with $800,000 in additional funding to train and hire firefighters to combat wildfires. The exodus of 9,500 volunteer firefighters in 2023 highlighted the need for increased resources to address the growing threat of wildfires.

Despite the challenges faced by firefighters on the frontlines, new technologies offer potential solutions to combat wildfires. Alberta and New Brunswick have been exploring the use of artificial intelligence, while the Canadian Space Agency is launching a dedicated fire-monitoring satellite. These advancements in technology aim to improve wildfire detection and response, offering hope for more effective fire management in the future.