Comox Fire Rescue has once again played an important role in the provincial wildfire response efforts, with crews and specialized equipment deployed to assist at major wildfires on Vancouver Island.
After 18 days away, the department鈥檚 Structure Protection Unit (SPU) and a five-person crew returned home on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. Their efforts were focused on the Wesley Ridge (Cameron Lake) and Mount Underwood (Port Alberni) wildfires, where they worked closely with BC Wildfire Service and other partner agencies.
In addition to the SPU deployment, Comox Fire Rescue also provided further support by sending:
A full-sized fire engine to the Wesley Ridge fire for two days and the department鈥檚 fireboat to the Mount Underwood fire for four days.
In total, more than 20 Comox firefighters contributed to these wildfire deployments.
鈥淚鈥檓 so proud of our firefighters,鈥� said Fire Chief Gord Schreiner. 鈥淭hey are exceptionally well-trained, highly professional and always step up when others are in need. These deployments are challenging, but they also provide invaluable experience that makes the team that much stronger.鈥�
鈥淲e could not do what we do without the dedication and commitment of our Comox Fire Rescue members,鈥� said Comox Mayor Nicole Minions. 鈥淲e are so thankful for all they do, especially with these deployments that take them away from their home, family and daily lives to support our neighbours and our fellow communities.鈥�
Over the past several years, Comox Fire Rescue has been deployed to over twenty different wildfires. Crews typically work 12-hour days and spend their nights in tents at the BC Wildfire camps. Despite the difficult circumstances, the experience gained is critical to enhancing the department鈥檚 ability to respond to large-scale emergencies both locally and provincially.
With the return home of the Comox Fire Rescue members, the team will focus on cleaning, servicing, and restocking their equipment to ensure it remains ready for any future calls for assistance.
