TORONTO — Ontario is ready to protect people and communities this wildland fire season, which lasts from April 1 until October 31. In preparation, the province has added an additional 68 permanent staff and increased compensation for critical staff including wildland firefighters, pilots and aircraft maintenance engineers. …“Our government stands behind the wildland firefighters, pilots and support staff that make up our frontline response and we will ensure they have everything they need for the upcoming fire season,” said Mike Harris, Minister of Natural Resources. In addition to the new staffing measures, Ontario and Canada are investing in projects through the Wildfire Resilient Futures Initiative that will help enhance local training, education and outreach programs. These measures will ensure communities across the province are equipped with the tools and resources to prevent and mitigate wildland fire risks, while advancing science and research projects to reduce wildland fire risk.