Training Meets Reality: Lakeland College Students Protect Jasper Amid Wildfires

As the destructive and heartbreaking events unfolded in Jasper National Park, a dedicated group of students from Lakeland College’s Emergency Services Technology program stepped up to protect the community and its surrounding natural beauty during the wildfires. Their deployment, which involved 27 students and 8 staff members, was not only a demonstration of their training but a testament to their commitment to public service.

Proactive Engagement

As the wildfire threat grew, the Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre took the initiative, reaching out to the Alberta Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) to offer their resources. This proactive engagement, built on years of relationship-building, allowed the team to respond quickly. Within hours of receiving the deployment request during the evening of July 24, the first contingent of students and staff left Lakeland’s Vermilion campus, arriving in Jasper ready to provide both strategic and operational support.

The team brought a range of critical equipment, including four structural fire engines, an ambulance, 28-passenger bus, and support vehicles, as well as 20 extra sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for use by any organization on site. Their rapid response and well-prepared deployment were crucial to the firefighting efforts that would unfold over the following days.

On the Frontlines

Upon arrival, the Lakeland team was assigned a section of the Jasper townsite, with the mission to prevent further loss of buildings and to extinguish any active fires. The students and staff adapted quickly to the chaotic and rapidly changing conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of their training in firefighting, rescue skills, paramedicine, fire investigations, fire inspections, operation and maintenance of fire apparatus, and professional driving. They worked in 12-hour shifts, ensuring continuous protection for the town.

One of the most significant challenges occurred when the team encountered a home with fire smoldering in the walls and attic space. The students acted swiftly, extinguishing the fire before it could spread, saving the home from destruction. This was just one of many instances where their quick thinking and teamwork made a significant impact.

Community Impact

The Lakeland College team’s impact extended beyond firefighting. The students engaged in community service activities, from clearing debris and unloading food supplies to setting up protective fencing, helping to restore a sense of normalcy in the aftermath of the fire.

Their ability to collaborate effectively with other emergency services and firefighting teams was a key factor in the overall success of the operation. The students’ preparedness allowed them to take on substantial tasks, freeing up other departments to focus on the most critical, high-risk areas. This collaboration not only shared the workload but also provided valuable learning experiences, as experienced firefighters from other departments mentored the students throughout the deployment.

Legacy of Learning

The deployment to Jasper was a defining moment for the students involved, shaping their perspectives and career aspirations. Many are now considering careers in wildland firefighting, a path they might not have contemplated before. The feedback from the students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and learn in such a meaningful way throughout their 5-day, 8-hour, and 30-minutes deployment in Jasper.

Lakeland College has received significant recognition for its role in the firefighting efforts. Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education, Rajan Sawhney, stated that "the bravery and dedication demonstrated by the Lakeland College Emergency Services Technology students during the Jasper wildfires are a true testament to the power of post-secondary education, training, and community service in Alberta.” Although a tragic event, the experience in Jasper will be used as a case study for future students, ensuring that the lessons learned during this deployment continue to benefit the next generation of emergency services professionals.

The Road Ahead

As Alberta faces an increasing threat of wildfires, the need for well-trained, dedicated responders is more critical than ever. As Canada’s largest first responder training school, Lakeland College’s Emergency Services Technology program has proven its value in real-world situations, and the recent deployment to Jasper is an admirable example of what can be achieved through proactive engagement, rigorous training, and a commitment to community service.

The Lakeland College Emergency Services Technology students who fought the wildfire in Jasper have not only helped to protect a cherished national park but have also set a standard of excellence and courage that will inspire others for years to come. Their efforts serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in education and training for those who stand on the frontlines, safeguarding our communities and Alberta’s natural heritage.