Residents and visitors of Harrison Hot Springs may have noticed an unusually high amount of firefighter activity over this past weekend.
Harrison firefighters were out in force around certain areas of Harrison's downtown core as firefighters took their engine boss course. According to the HHSFD, the engine boss course is designed to help firefighters trained in structure protection be prepared for wildland-urban interface firefighting, such as when a wildfire enters a more urban area. The course is part of regular firefighter training and can assist in helping firefighters get ready for a variety of wildfire scenarios.
A variety of fire departments were in attendance during Saturday's training sessions around Harrison: The B.C. Wildfire Service as well as fire departments from Agassiz, Popkum, Hope, Mission, Sunshine Valley and Roberts Creek.
Harrison's firefighters extended a big thank you to those involved in putting the course together and those residents who allowed them to use their properties for the engine boss training.
"This training wasn’t just about learning vital skills in leading wildfire response and coordinating resources effectively in real-time scenarios—it was about strengthening teamwork and collaboration," the HHSFD stated. "Working alongside fire crews from across the province, we practiced coordinating under pressure and supporting each other in high-stakes scenarios. Building these bonds and skills helps us serve our community more effectively, knowing we can rely on one another when it matters most."
The village and local firefighters have been bolstering their defences against wildfires in recent months. In addition to training, the village recently installed a Sensenet wildfire detection system around the village and stepped up efforts to clear out potential wildfire fuel in key areas.
To report wildfires or irresponsible behaviour that could start a wildfire, call 1-800-663-5555 (*5555 from a cell phone) as soon as possible.
