Sask. doubles down on firefighters sent to B.C.

Saskatchewan will double its contribution of firefighters being sent to help battle fires burning across British Columbia.

Twenty firefighters were sent toKamloops, B.C., on Tuesday. An additional 20 will be joining them on Thursday.

As well, twoair tankers and anotheraircraft with support staff were sent to B.C. on Saturday.

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Crews that arrived inKamloopson Tuesday have not yet received assignments, said Steve Roberts, executive director of Saskatchewan's wildfire management branch. He said B.C. is currently working toward providing staging and logistical support for all incoming personnel.

Sending help south

Saskatchewan will also send twoair tankers and anotheraircraft to Montana on Thursdayto assist in fighting fires that are burning in the western United States.

"Their resources are becomingstretched, and they've turned to their partners north of the border to see if they could get some assistance," Roberts said.

More requests for assistance will be considered ifSaskatchewan's own protection capacity can be maintained, he said.

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