Members of the Fredericton Fire Department are participating this week in specialized wildland urban interface training to strengthen the city’s ability to respond to wildfire threats.
The “Responding to the Interface” training program provides firefighters and company officers with practical instruction in safety, command and control, and tactical decision-making when protecting structures exposed to wildfire. The training focuses on the unique conditions found where developed areas meet forests and natural landscapes and environments where fires can behave differently from typical structural incidents.
Delivered as a joint effort with national training partners, including the International Association of Fire Fighters, the program combines classroom learning with hands-on field exercises. The training builds on the Fredericton Fire Department’s existing capabilities and reflects an ongoing commitment to maintaining a high level of operational readiness.
“Wildfire risk is evolving, and we need to make sure our people are prepared for the environments they may face,” said Fire Chief Dwayne Killingbeck. “This training gives our firefighters the knowledge and confidence to operate safely and effectively in interface conditions, which are becoming more relevant for communities like Fredericton. It is part of a broader effort to ensure we are ready to protect our community.”
This work is part of a broader effort by the city to strengthen its approach to wildfire risk and preparedness. Fredericton is currently undertaking a wildfire risk assessment to support the development of a Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan, a FireSmart-aligned framework that will help guide how the City understands risk, prioritizes mitigation, and prepares for potential wildfire threats.
Departments across the organization have already begun advancing preparedness through targeted training, equipment readiness, and alignment with FireSmart Canada principles, which emphasize practical steps communities can take to reduce wildfire risk.
The city recognizes the support of Fredericton City Council in advancing this work and in prioritizing investments that strengthen community safety and resilience.
Together, these efforts ensure that Fredericton is taking a balanced approach to wildfire preparedness, combining immediate operational readiness with longer-term planning to reduce risk and protect the community.