Four firefighters from Irma Fire and Rescue were deployed to help fight the Jasper wildfire which destroyed 30 per cent of the town in recent days.
IFR put out a deployment update on its website stating that, as well as the crew being dispatched, also deployed with them were an engine and command unit from Wainwright Fire and Rescue, “to assist with ongoing firefighting activities.”
Irma Fire Department members now in Jasper include Darcy Tomlinson, John Wilson, Corey Rinas and Harrison Lawson. Later in the week, Blair Fenton and Robert Larson will be taking their place.
Damien Kurek, MP for Battle River-Crowfoot, sent out a message to these firefighters: “Thanks boys, and praying for all those fighting those fires.”
Neighbouring departments in Paradise Valley and Vermilion fire districts also deployed firefighters to the Jasper fire.
The fire is reportedly completely put out in Jasper townsite, but the beloved national park itself is still under threat from the wildfire.
Last weekend’s cooler weather and some rain helped to mitigate conditions, however strong winds went against their efforts to contain this conflagration.
As of July 27, fewer active wildfires were reported burning across Alberta, with two new wildfires recorded over the last 48 hours.
More firefighting help is expected in the days ahead, as a contingency from South Africa has once again arrived as it has in years past to fight these fires in the province.
The Municipality of Jasper and Jasper National Park remain under an evacuation order due to out of control wildfires burning in Jasper National Park.
The fire caused the most damage to the west side of Jasper townsite after it reached that area at 8:30 p.m. last Wednesday.
The Alberta government is supporting Parks Canada by providing crews, a helicopter and heavy equipment. Also helping is the Canadian military which will support the firefighting efforts in asper and Jasper National Park.
A fire ban is in p lace for the entire Forest Protection Area in Alberta.
Alberta and Canada announced Sunday they will match Canadian Red Cross donations in support of Albert Wildfire responses, “to help those impacted by wildfires in Jasper and across the province of Alberta.”
Patricia Harcourt
Editor
