Saskatchewan says hot summer may heighten wildfire risks and officials are ready for season

Saskatchewan officials say crews have trained, prevention work is underway and equipment and aircraft are being readied as they prepare for a summer that could bring hot, windy conditions; independent reviews of last year’s response are nearing completion.

Wildfire season is approaching in Saskatchewan and officials say they are preparing for possible hot summer conditions. Steve Roberts of the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency said crews are training, prevention work has been done and equipment and aircraft are being readied. Last year saw more than 500 fires that burned nearly three million hectares and forced evacuations, with heavy damage reported in Denare Beach. Independent reviews of the agency's response are in their final stages, with one report expected in late spring and an auditor's report due in June. Key points: - Officials report training, fuel-reduction work (including thinning and fire guards), and preparations of vehicles and equipment. - Last year there were over 500 fires that burned nearly three million hectares and caused large-scale evacuations and damage in Denare Beach. - The independent review of the agency’s response is nearing completion with a report due in late spring; the provincial auditor will publish a separate report in June. - Some water bombers were grounded last year due to inspection and parts issues, and the total number of aircraft available this season has not yet been confirmed. Summary: Officials say this season's preparations focus on prevention, planning and improved evacuation handling, while acknowledging that hot and windy summer weather could present challenges. Rebuilding work in Denare Beach includes clearing burned areas and hazardous trees and plans for prefabricated homes later this spring. The independent review is expected in late spring and the auditor's report is due in June, and the total number of aircraft available for the season remains undetermined at this time.