About the Training

The GNWT is sponsoring local fire departments to send two members to participate in operational cross-training exercises. This is a fantastic opportunity for community firefighters to learn basic wildland firefighting techniques and learn from each other. This training can also be an introduction to firefighting for workers from communities who do not have an active fire department.

When & Where?

• Training exercises will happen in the mornings on Apr. 23 and 24 at another location in Yellowknife. All transportation to and from training sessions to the hotel will be provided.

• For the afternoons on Apr. 23 and 24, and the full day of Apr. 25, trainees will join the Wildfire Preparedness Workshop. This workshop will build off the field exercises and increase trainees’ knowledge and understanding of wildfires, hazard reduction, and how to keep communities safe.

Who should attend?

We are asking the local fire department and/or the SAO or Band Manager to identify two key, dedicated members of the local fire department to participate in the training.

For communities that do not have an active fire department, the SAO or Band Manager can identify two people who would benefit from the training, such as:

• Public works supervisors or workers
• Workers who would be expected to stay behind and respond during a wildfire-related evacuation
• Any former wildland or structural firefighters who happen to work within your government who may be expected to lend their skills to a wildfire emergency response in your community

What to Expect?

Training sessions will happen on the mornings of Apr. 23 and 24. Cross training hands-on and classroom exercises will include:

• Field demonstrations of sprinkler setup
• Practice using the NWT’s structure protection trailers and equipment used for wildfire response
• Collaborative exercises on community fire department response considerations during a wildfire event that impacts a community.

For the remainder of Apr. 23, 24, and all day Apr. 25 trainees will join the Wildfire Preparedness Workshop. Transportation between the hotel and cross-training location will be provided.

What to Bring?

Hands-on session
We will be outside for part of the cross-training and handling equipment. Make sure to bring the following:

• Hard hat
• Safety boots
• Leather gloves
• Warm socks
• Coveralls and a work jacket are recommended for warmth and keeping clothes clean

• Hard hat
• Safety boots
• Leather gloves
• Warm socks
• Coveralls and a work jacket are recommended for warmth and keeping clothes clean

Classroom session
We will complete exercises to help firefighters think through how to protect a neighbourhood during a wildfire event.

• Bring a pen and notebook to take notes, or a laptop or tablet.
• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated

Travel and Hotel

• All travel costs are covered for community-based participants attending this workshop.
• Travel days are Tuesday, April 22 (arrival) & Saturday, April 26 (departure).
• You DO NOT need to book your accommodation. Your room at the Chateau Nova Hotel will be booked when you register for the workshop and the cost will be covered. You will receive a booking confirmation by email.
• You must arrange your own travel. Per diems and travel costs will be reimbursed after the workshop. You will receive an expense claim to submit, so keep your travel receipts.