The Manitoba government will spend $1.6 million this year to install new radios and warning systems in Wildfire Service water bombers used to battle forest fires, the natural resources minister announced April 27.
Two 12-person bunkhouses will also be constructed at the Wekusko Falls initial attack base to support northern wildfire suppression efforts, the government said.
Manitoba’s four CL-415 water bombers will be equipped with corrosion protection and water door warning systems. The warning systems will reduce the risk of performing water scoop operations with a partially open water door, which could have disastrous consequences.
The province’s three CL-215 water bombers will have new radios installed to ensure that they are compatible with Manitoba’s new public safety communications network. The current radios do not work with the network.
“Investing in our provincial water bomber fleet is essential as it plays an important role in our government’s climate resiliency strategy,” said Scott Fielding, minister or natural resources and northern development. “Strategic investments in the prevention and suppression of wildfires will help ensure the ability to prepare and respond in managing wildfire risks to protect Manitobans, forestry and provincial natural resources.”
This year’s funding will bring the province’s spending on communications technology and safety upgrades for the water bomber fleet to $4.1 million over the past three years.
Babcock Canada, which operates and maintains Manitoba’s seven water bombers, will be in charge of implementing the safety upgrades on the plane.
