We are thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 BC Wildland Firefighter Awards! In recognition of the critical role that wildland firefighters play in keeping the province safe, FireSmart BC, the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society, and BC Wildfire Service have partnered to create the BC Wildland Firefighter Awards. These awards will recognize four outstanding firefighters, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, during the Wildfire Resiliency & Training Summit (WRTS) taking place from April 8-12, 2026, in Victoria, BC. Each recipient will receive a personalized award plus a $1000 grant towards furthering wildfire resiliency efforts. Individuals will be notified of their nomination in advance and encouraged to attend the WRTS. Event registration and travel expenses will be covered for the four award recipients plus one guest each. Four awards will recognize both long-standing and early-career firefighters: Vanguard Award (early career firefighter: less than 10 years), and Guardian Award (long-standing firefighter: over 10 years).