At URSA, our wildfire crews are an extension of who we are: hardworking, reliable, and committed to protecting the people and places we care about. When wildfires threaten communities and landscapes across British Columbia, our crews step forward with professionalism, training, and an intense focus on safety.
We take pride in being a trusted part of the wildfire response system. It’s not a job we take lightly, and it’s a responsibility we’re committed to doing well, every time we’re called to the line.
Professionalism That Reflects Our Values
Every wildfire season, our crews represent URSA in high-pressure and often unpredictable environments. That’s why we put such a strong emphasis on professionalism. From the way we communicate, to the way we maintain our equipment, to how we carry ourselves when working alongside other agencies and crews.
Our teams understand that their presence on the fire line reflects more than just their own work ethic. It reflects our company’s culture and values. We show up prepared, focused, and respectful of the communities we serve and the partners we work with.
Whether we’re working with BC Wildfire Service, Indigenous fire response teams, or private landowners, our goal is to support the operation in a way that’s consistent, dependable, and constructive.
Training That Builds Readiness
We believe the foundation of a strong wildfire crew is built far before the season begins. At URSA, we invest in training that prepares our teams not just for the technical tasks of wildfire suppression, but for the realities of the long, challenging days that come with it.
Our crews complete all required certifications and participate in additional scenario-based training to sharpen their fire behavior awareness, decision-making skills, and teamwork in the field. Returning crew leads go through leadership refreshers, and new recruits are mentored by experienced team members who set the tone for what’s expected.
This consistent focus on preparation means our crews head into each season with the confidence and capability to work safely and effectively in the field.
Safety as a Shared Responsibility
Safety is a core value at URSA. One that every crew member is responsible for upholding. Wildfire environments are inherently dangerous, but we believe a strong safety culture can minimize any risk and ensure everyone goes home at the end of the day.
Our crews start every season with safety briefings and carry that awareness into each day on the fire line. We emphasize clear communication, hazard identification, and crew accountability. More importantly, we foster a culture where people feel comfortable raising concerns, asking questions, and watching out for one another.
The nature of wildfire work requires strong systems, but it’s the people who bring those systems to life. We’re proud of the care our crews take in looking after themselves and each other.
A Reliable Part of Response
Wildfire response is a demanding and critical service, and our role in that space is something we take seriously. Our crews are available for initial attack and sustained action support across the province, and we work closely with a range of partners to align our services with their needs.
Whether it’s assisting with suppression, mop-up, or mitigation, our focus is on being adaptable, dependable, and safe—no matter the scope of the task.
At Ursa, our wildfire crews are more than just a seasonal workforce. They’re people who believe in the value of the work, who take pride in doing it well, and who understand the impact of their efforts on the ground.
Looking Ahead
As wildfire seasons become more complex and demanding, we know that staying grounded in these core values of professionalism, preparedness, and safety will be more important than ever. We’re committed to continuing to build well-trained teams, supporting our partners, and doing our part to protect BC’s communities and natural resources.
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