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NWT firefighters help battle blazes in Saskatchewan

Team of 21 joining fight against fire which has destroyed several communities
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A team of 21 NWT firefighters is helping to battle a massive wildfire in Saskatchewan. Back row, from left, Dwight Hardisty, Liam Hardisty, Jackson Smith, Tanner Salopree, Stryden Hult-Griffin, Dalton McLeod, Parker Carpenter, River McQueen, David Sangris, Trenton Koe, Dylan Cardinal (red hat), Devyn Dievert, Angel Simon and Markus Chalifoux. Front row, from left, Alex Williah, Devon Horassi, Gerald Hardisty, Nathan Vital, Jordan Balsillie and Alexi Taureau. Photo courtesy NWT Fire Info

A team of 21 NWT firefighters is currently providing assistance battling out of control wildfires in Saskatchewan.

NWT Fire announce the team dispatched on May 30.

"During difficult times, Canadians come together, no matter the distance. The Government of the Northwest Territories is grateful to support the provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba," said NWT Fire in a statement. "This spirit of cooperation reflects the values we share SA¹ú¼ÊÓ°ÊÓ´«Ã½” helping one another with strength and shared resolve.

"To all the wildland firefighters around the country: thank you for your service and dedication."

NWT Wildfire information officer Thomas Bentham told NNSL the team had been assigned to combat the Shoe Fire in Central Saskatchewan. This fire is currently 471,418 hectares in size and has already destroyed several lakeside communities, forcing multiple evacuations. The team is camped in a town south of the fire known as Choiceland.

Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency reported they've registered over 9,000 evacuees already in this year's wildfires but expected that number to grow past 15,000.

Bentham said the NWT firefighters were fitting into their role under the unified command, which also consists of crews from Yukon, B.C., and Nova Scotia.

"Our crews have quickly slipped into unison and are working wonderfully as a single unit," he said. "Their combined years of experience are impressive, and their work ethic is astounding.

"The NWT will happily send further assistance if it can be made available."

 



About the Author: Eric Bowling, Local Journalism Initiative

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