Parkland County Fire Services Represents Canada at International Fire Department Exchange

The FDX program brings together fire departments from across North America that are leading efforts to address wildland-urban interface (WUI) challenges — the areas where communities meet forest and grassland. The exchange provides an opportunity for fire departments to share best practices, explore innovative wildfire mitigation techniques, and strengthen partnerships through in-person collaboration.

The week-long program gathered seven fire departments recognized for excellence in wildfire management, including Austin Fire Department’s Wildfire Division (Texas), Anchorage Fire Department’s Wildfire Division (Alaska), Weber Fire District (Utah), Columbus Department of Fire & EMS (Georgia), Lake Valley Fire Protection District (South Lake Tahoe, California), host department Flagstaff Fire Department (Arizona), and Parkland County Fire Services representing Canada.

During the exchange, participants took part in intensive sessions on wildfire prevention, evacuation strategies, community outreach, interagency coordination, and fire mitigation. Parkland County Fire Services was invited to showcase Canada’s FireSmart Program, highlighting the department’s successful local outreach and education initiatives.

“This was an incredible knowledge-sharing opportunity,” said Deputy Fire Chief Sean Cunningham. “Our team was proud to represent both Parkland County and Canada. We’ve brought home innovative ideas that will help us continue to strengthen our community’s wildfire preparedness and resilience.”

Parkland County’s participation underscores its leadership in wildfire readiness, community education, and emergency response. The County’s diverse landscape — spanning over 2,300 square kilometres of farmland, forests, lakes, and rural communities — presents unique wildfire challenges that the department addresses through a combination of prevention, preparedness, and operational response.

Locally, Parkland County Fire Services works closely with residents through FireSmart education, home assessments, and neighbourhood clean-ups, as well as enforcing fire bans and providing year-round public safety education. During wildfire season, the County deploys additional wildland-certified firefighters and coordinates closely with partners to ensure a swift, coordinated response.

The Fire Department Exchange program is funded by a United States Forest Service (USFS) Cooperative Agreement with the International Association of Fire Chiefs and represents a North America-wide effort to improve wildfire mitigation and management through collaboration and shared learning. “This recognition speaks to the dedication and professionalism of our firefighters and support staff,” said Cunningham. “We’re committed to using what we’ve learned to enhance safety, preparedness, and protection for all Parkland County residents.”