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IAFF providing specialized WUI training in Strathcona County

May 29, 2024, Strathcona County, Alta. — Strathcona County became the first Canadian community in 2024 to receive the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) specialized training in wildland urban interface wildfires.

The program, Responding to the Interface, is being held from May 27 to 30, and will provide firefighters with insight into the approaches and tools necessary to fight wildfires that burn in areas where communities meet grasslands and forest.

“We are very proud to host this training,” said Martin Paulson, Strathcona County fire chief. “Strathcona County has a large WUI with many rural residences and hamlets. Our firefighters are already trained for WUI fire fighting; however, it is critical that we continue to grow our skills and learn techniques from other jurisdictions.”

Following the completion of the 32-hour course, instructors will train and certify attending firefighters to teach the course themselves, enhancing local fire fighting response and capabilities.

Prerequisites for the grant-eligible class include completion of ASFF’s free Responding to the Interface Awareness online course and FEMA’s S-190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behaviour.