From First Aid to Fireline: Your Path to Wildland Deployment

/ Delta Emergency Support Training/

Into the Flames: Exploring Wildland Firefighting in Canada

Wildland firefighter clearing brush

Canada’s Increasing Need for Wildland Firefighters

With fire seasons growing longer and more intense across Canada, wildland firefighters are more essential than ever. From British Columbia’s dry interior to the boreal forests of Alberta and Northern Ontario, fire crews are called on every summer to battle large, unpredictable blazes that threaten ecosystems, homes, and entire communities.

If you're working toward becoming a first responder, Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), or firefighter, wildland firefighting can be a powerful way to gain experience, build resilience, and serve when it matters most.

What Is Wildland Firefighting?

Wildland firefighting involves controlling and suppressing fires that occur in natural areas—forests, grasslands, or remote terrain. In contrast to urban or structural firefighting, wildland firefighters operate in rugged, undeveloped areas, often far from roads, with limited access to resources.

You might be:

  • Building fire guards (hand-dug trenches to stop fire spread)

  • Conducting controlled burns

  • Monitoring hot spots for reignition

  • Assisting with helicopter bucket drops or pump setups

  • Supporting evacuations of nearby communities

Canadian Training and Requirements

If you're interested in working as a wildland firefighter in Canada, here are the typical requirements:

✅ Required Certifications:

  • S-100: Basic Fire Suppression and Safety

  • S-185: Fire Entrapment Avoidance

  • ICS-100: Introduction to Incident Command System

  • Standard First Aid, Advanced First Aid, or EMR (depending on the role)

🏋️ Fitness Testing:

Many agencies require a physical fitness test (like the WFX-FIT), which includes:

  • Carrying a 25 kg pump

  • Hose pack hikes

  • Grip strength and balance challenges

🧰 Additional Skills That Help:

  • Chainsaw safety certification

  • WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials)

  • Radio communication skills

  • Class 4 or air brake license (for driving fire vehicles)

In Canada, wildland firefighters are employed by:

  • Provincial agencies (e.g., BC Wildfire Service, Alberta Wildfire, Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry)

  • Private contractors

  • Federal emergency response teams

Why EMR and AFA Matter on the Fireline

Medical incidents on wildfire deployments are more common than many expect. Team members may face:

  • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke

  • Dehydration or altitude sickness

  • Burns or smoke inhalation

  • Trauma from slips, trips, or falling debris

  • Insect stings or allergic reactions

Having a certified Emergency Medical Responder or someone with Advanced First Aid training on a crew means faster, more effective care until paramedics or air support can arrive. It's also a valuable asset that can make your application stand out.

What Deployment Is Really Like

Canadian wildland fire deployments can last days or even weeks, especially during peak season (June to August). Expect:

  • Camp life (tents, cots, and basic food services)

  • 12+ hour shifts

  • Variable weather (extreme heat, rain, or smoke)

  • Team living — camaraderie and close-knit bonds are key

The work is physically tough, but the environment is incredibly rewarding—many describe it as life-changing.

What to Pack on a Deployment

Most agencies provide essential PPE (boots, helmet, Nomex gear), but your go-bag should include:

  • High-energy snacks

  • Extra socks

  • Lightweight sleeping gear

  • Rehydration tablets or electrolytes

  • Small first aid kit

  • Bug spray and sunscreen

Mental Resilience Is Key

The mental strain of extended deployments, long shifts, and witnessing environmental damage can take its toll. Fireline crews rely heavily on:

  • Peer support

  • Strong leadership

  • Daily briefings and debriefings

  • Mental health resources when needed

How to Get Started in Canada

  1. Take an Advanced First Aid or EMR course to meet hiring and deployment requirements.

  2. Get your S-100 and S-185 certifications (typically offered through wildfire agencies or training providers).

  3. Train physically for endurance, balance, and strength.

  4. Apply to provincial wildfire services or contractors in early spring (applications often open between January and March).

Why Wildland Firefighting Is a Great Step Toward a Fire Service Career

Many municipal firefighters start with wildland contracts. It helps build:

  • Teamwork under pressure

  • Medical and safety experience

  • Exposure to command structures (ICS)

  • Mental and physical readiness for emergency work

🔥 Train With Delta Emergency Support Training

At Delta Emergency Support Training, we support future wildland firefighters with Red Cross-certified Advanced First Aid and EMR training—delivered by real paramedics and firefighters who know what the job demands. If you’re serious about joining the fire service, we’ll help you start strong and stay prepared.

Ready to begin your career on the front lines of Canada’s wildfires? Join Team Delta and let’s get started.