How Manitoba is preparing for the 2026 wildfire season

Remnants from a fire are pictured in this undated image from the 2025 Manitoba wildfire season. (File photo)

The Manitoba government is taking steps to prepare for this year’s wildfire season by investing in equipment and hiring additional staff.

On Wednesday, the province released its first fire bulletin of the 2026 season, highlighting what the government is doing to strengthen its wildfire preparedness.

These preventative steps include a $1.2 million upgrade to the wildfire service’s weather information and fire mapping systems; the creation of a new initial attack and fire base in the Thompson area; and the addition of 19 new seasonal job positions. Manitoba is also investing $1.1 million into aerial firefighting services and continuing the recruitment and training of community-based wildland firefighters.

The bulletin noted that spring is a critical time for wildfire prevention, adding that many spring wildfires are avoidable.

The bulletin goes on to say that the 2025 season highlighted the role human activity plays in wildfire risk and encouraged Manitobans to stay vigilant.

The province offered the following advice to reduce the risk of wildfires:

• Do not burn if it’s windy.
• Know and follow burn restrictions.
• Do not leave an outdoor fire unattended and always fully extinguish the flames.
• Practice FireSmart principles during spring cleanup. This includes pruning tree branches to two metres above ground and removing combustible debris.
• Stay on developed trails if you are riding an ATV.
• Check and maintain all equipment, including trailers, car tires and off-road vehicles.
• Carry a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel when travelling in backcountry.
• Ensure firearm discharge residue is extinguished when hunting.
• Don’t fly drones near wildfires.
• Practice responsible waste management.

More information on wildfire prevention is available online.