Wildland Fire Management Watson Lake Fire Center

The Watson Lake Fire Centre is a key regional hub for managing wildland fires in southeastern Yukon. This centre is part of the broader Yukon Wildland Fire Management network and is dedicated to protecting lives, property, and natural resources through strategic fire prevention, monitoring, and suppression efforts. 

Wildland Fire Management's Regional Protection Manager's November 19, 2024 Council Meeting Presentation

The team employs a balanced approach, focusing on rapid suppression where people and infrastructure are threatened, while monitoring and managing fires in remote areas. Using advanced technologies, combined with local expertise, the Watson Lake Fire Centre ensures effective response strategies. Preparedness measures include maintaining a trained firefighting workforce, coordinating with heavy equipment operators, and leveraging a regional duty officer to oversee fire activity during the fire season. Additionally, the Watson Lake Fire Centre engages with the community through FireSmart initiatives, cross-training with local organizations like the Watson Lake Fire Department, and developing emergency and evacuation plans. This center plays an essential role in maintaining community safety, enhancing fire resilience, and managing Yukon’s unique boreal forest ecology.