With the 2025 wildland fire season set to begin on April 1 and run through October 31, the provincial government has announced an expansion of its firefighting resources to better protect people, property, and communities across the province.
The Ministry of Natural Resources has filled nearly 100 additional permanent positions ahead of this year’s fire season, ensuring that trained personnel and critical resources are in place to respond effectively to wildfires.
"We are ready to protect people, communities, and properties across Ontario from wildland fires," said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources in a release. "When wildland fires hit, our brave and dedicated FireRangers, pilots, and support staff are prepared to battle these fires and protect Ontarians."
The federal and provincial governments combined to invest $64 million in the province’s wildland fire program last year which was used to enhance firefighting capacity, improve fire suppression equipment, and upgrade emergency management technology.
Ontario has built a comprehensive fire management system that includes 14 fire management headquarters, three attack bases, and 11 forward attack bases. The province also operates two regional fire centres and one provincial fire centre, which houses the ministry’s emergency operations centre. To support firefighting efforts, Ontario maintains seven aircraft hangars, one flight training centre, and two regional logistics centres, as well as a provincial logistics centre.
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, emphasized the importance of a coordinated effort in wildfire management.
"As we prepare for the upcoming wildland fire season, our government is working hard to make sure municipalities, First Nations communities, and partners across the province have the resources and equipment they need to keep neighbourhoods and families safe" Dunlop said. "The people of Ontario are our top priority. Together, we're committed to ensuring we are resilient, ready, and strong in the face of natural disasters and emergencies."
The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs has also expressed support for the government’s enhanced efforts to combat wildfires.
"The Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs applaud the Ontario Government in taking steps to protect people, communities, and properties across the province," said Rob Grimwood, Deputy Fire Chief and President of the association. “These are all great steps as wildfires are becoming more intense and unpredictable. Education, preparedness, and response measures need to adapt to protect Ontarians.”
Human activity remains a significant cause of wildland fires, accounting for approximately 50 percent of all reported incidents.