The province has put out their first Fire Bulletin of the year, highlighting changes outlined in the 2025 Wildfire Interim After Action Report to help the province's fire control for this year.
Important notes from the report include a $1.2 million upgrade to the Manitoba Wildfire Service's weather information and fire mapping systems, creating a new initial attack and fire base near Thompson, and a $1.1 million investment in aerial firefighting services.
Also of note, the province is adding 19 new seasonal positions, which includes 3 new initial attack crews, and converting 15 short-term emergency management staff to permanent positions. The province is also continuing to train and recruit community-based wildland firefighters, especially in First Nations.
The bulletin says spring is a very critical time for wildfire prevention. The province has a list of prevention tips in the latest Fire Bulletin.
- Do not burn if it is windy, as wind can make fires worse and blow embers and ash.
- Know and follow burn restrictions, which prohibit open fires from April 1 to Nov. 15 annually, except under a burning permit or in approved enclosed fire pits, such as grated campfire pits in provincial campsites.
- Never leave an outdoor fire unattended and always fully extinguish fires by drowning ashes and embers with water before leaving. This includes safely disposing of ashes from wood stoves, burn barrels and campfires.
- Practice FireSmart principles during spring cleanup. Prune tree branches on properties to two metres above ground, remove combustible debris such as dried leaves, needles and branches, and keep lawns shorter than 10 centimetres. For more information, visit www.firesmartcanada.ca.
- ATV riders should stay on developed trails and regularly check for debris in areas around the engine and exhaust system, disposing of any materials safely.
- Prevent sparks by checking and maintaining all equipment, including vehicle tires, trailers and off-road vehicles, and any other equipment traveling along roadways. Also check safety chains on trailers and make sure they are well off the ground before driving.
- Be prepared to extinguish small fires safely by making sure to always carry a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel when travelling in backcountry.
- Hunters should ensure any firearm discharge residue is fully extinguished to prevent wildfires.
- Do not fly drones near wildfires, as they can interfere with emergency aircraft operations. Water bombers and helicopters cannot operate safely if drones or other aircraft are in the area, which can delay response put firefighters on the ground at risk without air support.
- Practice FireSmart waste management as responsible management of garbage dumps helps reduce wildfire risk. Poorly managed waste sites can easily ignite and spread fire, especially during dry conditions.
Click here to view the province's first Fire Bulletin of the year.
