BC Wildfire is hiring crew members for 2018

Do you think you have what it takes to battle the blazes that devastated B.C.’s Interior this summer?

BC Wildfire says it employs about 1,000 firefighters every year, and is currently accepting applications for the 2018 wildfire season. The essential work of firefighters was front and centre in July and August as B.C. faced its most devastating wildfire season on record.

The province experienced its longest ever provincial state of emergency, more than 1.19 million hectares were burned and about 65,000 people were evacuated from their homes.

While B.C. towns rallied amid the crisis, wildfire fighters were on the front lines, working long hours to protect communities. It takes more than just strength to be a wildfire fighter in B.C. While applicants must complete fitness tests and attend BC Wildfire boot camp, they also have to demonstrate motivation and tenacity.

BC Wildfire says the recruiting process can be lengthy. The application deadline is January 15th and, if recruits score well in the interview and fitness assessments, they can be accepted to boot camp, which takes place in Merritt in April.

Only after that, in mid-May, will BC Wildfire make job offers.

BC Wildfire says between 100 and 150 candidates are invited to boot camp every year, depending on the number of vacancies on fire crews.

Applicants must also have first-aid certification and demonstrate a relevant skill set, such as wilderness experience, resource training, high-level fitness achievements or forestry experience.

Anyone who thinks they have what it takes can apply online before January 15th. Information on the application process is here.