Imagine boarding a plane or helicopter, then parachuting directly into the heart of a wildfire.
That’s exactly what the Parattack team, also known as ‘smokejumpers,’ does when battling wildfires in British Columbia.
The BC Wildfire Service’s (BCWS) Parattack program has a storied history that highlights its evolution into a crucial component of wildfire management in the province.
Launched in 1998 in Smithers, BC, this innovative program was designed to tackle the unique challenges posed by wildfires in remote and inaccessible areas—similar to the wildfire currently burning out of control near Sooke.
Recognizing the need for a more effective response mechanism, the province relocated the program to Fort St. John in 2000.
Over the past decade, the program has continued to expand, with an additional base established in Mackenzie, BC.
Parattack crews are a specialized team trained to parachute from fixed-wing aircraft to access wildfires in remote or difficult-to-reach locations.
Their ability to parachute into remote locations allows them to establish an initial attack on the fire before other resources can arrive. They also handle medical emergencies in isolated areas, conduct reconnaissance flights for strategic assessments, and work alongside other firefighting units.
On Friday, the smokejumpers were dropped into the Old Man Lake wildfire zone near the east flank of the fire, which was previously inaccessible to other firefighters due to steep terrain and other dangers.
On July 26, two parattack crews and one leader were deployed to the east flank of the Old Man Lake wildfire (V61401). Parattack crews, sometimes called “smokejumpers,” are trained to parachute from fixed-wing aircraft to access wildfires in remote or difficult-to-reach locations. pic.twitter.com/YDTV9mr4Mg
— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) July 27, 2024
Once on the ground, Parattack crews engage in direct firefighting efforts, such as constructing fire lines, removing vegetation, and applying water or fire retardants.
They are typically equipped to operate independently in the field for up to 48 hours.
Their specialized gear includes parachutes, fire-resistant clothing, and various firefighting tools designed specifically for wildfire management.
Currently, the BCWS employs approximately 60 Parattack firefighters based in the Prince George Fire Centre.
As of this publication, the BCWS reports that crews and aviation resources are making significant progress in containing both the south and north flanks of the fire, working from west to east.
Notably, the west flank along the Sooke River has been fully contained.
With rain falling throughout the Greater Victoria area, BCWS says there has been no major growth on the fire overnight.
