Province Enhances Aerial Services to Fight Wildfires

The province is looking skyward to support wildfire fighting capabilities and help provide better protection for Nova Scotians and our valuable resources.

The Natural Resources Department has an agreement with a Halifax company to assist the department's fleet of five helicopters, when required, to help put out wildfires.

"While our current fleet is sufficient to handle the wildfire suppression needs across the province, there are times when additional help may be required," said Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker.

"We need to be prepared for such an event to help better protect Nova Scotians as well as our forests, wildlife and other resources that are at risk."

Vision Air will operate on a contract basis and there may be times during the year when the service is not used.

Nova Scotia does have the Mutual Aid Resource Sharing Agreement in place with other provinces and New England states, but a local helicopter company is expected to help provide a quicker response.

The province also has a contract with Central Valley Aircraft Inc. to provide a fixed wing aircraft, when required, to support the department's existing fire tower system for detecting wildfires.