Journalist and photographer Trina Moyles spent seven seasons working as a fire lookout near Peace River, Alta., witnessing some of Canada’s worst wildfire seasons. She has seen firsthand the stress of watching communities threatened by advancing wildfires from the tower. Her experience inspired her to write a memoir titled Lookout, detailing her time 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. However, despite the increased resources, an exodus of 9,500 volunteer firefighters in 2023 highlighted the need for even more support to address the growing threat of wildfires.
Despite these challenges, new technologies offer potential solutions to combat wildfires. Alberta and New Brunswick have been exploring the use of artificial intelligence (AI), 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.
Moyles’ experience as a fire lookout has taught her that even with all these new technologies and resources available, fighting wildfires is not an easy job. It requires dedication and bravery from all those involved, including firefighters on the frontlines who put their lives on hold every day to protect communities from harm.
In conclusion, Canada’s ongoing struggle with wildfires highlights the importance of continued investment in technology and resources for effective fire management. As Moyles reminds us through her memoir Lookout, there is still much work to be done to ensure that our communities are safe from these destructive forces.
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