A helicopter carrying a wildfire attack crew was forced to land in a forested area near Pemberton, British Columbia, on Wednesday, as they were responding to a growing wildfire south of the town. Pemberton is located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Vancouver, an area currently experiencing significant smoke and heat due to ongoing wildfires in the region.
Forests Minister Ravi Parmar expressed relief that all individuals aboard the helicopter were accounted for and that there were no critical injuries reported following the incident. During a news briefing focused on wildfires and heat conditions, Parmar provided details about the event, underscoring the risky nature of operations undertaken by wildfire crews in challenging environments.
According to Cliff Chapman, the director of provincial operations for the BC Wildfire Service, the helicopter was carrying a pilot and three wildfire staff members. After the forced landing, all involved individuals were able to walk and were being supported by an extraction crew as well as paramedics. Health personnel were also prepared to assist them upon their return to the Pemberton base for further evaluation.
Minister Parmar refrained from speculating on the cause of the forced landing, stating that it would be "premature" to comment on potential contributing factors without more information. He assured the public that once additional details regarding the conditions of the wildland firefighters and the circumstances leading to the helicopter’s forced landing became available, they would be shared promptly.
The Transportation Safety Board announced that it had been made aware of the incident and would assess the appropriate next steps for investigation. This development highlights the ongoing challenges and inherent risks faced by wildfire response teams in British Columbia, especially during peak wildfire season.
This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role played by pilots and wildfire crews in combating wildfires, often under perilous conditions. While the quick response of support teams ensured that all personnel returned unharmed, the evaluation of the situation and any necessary investigations by authorities will be crucial in preventing future occurrences.
