The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Comparing The Wildfires in Jasper & Los Angeles - Encore
Jun 4, 2025
Matthew Scace, a Calgary Herald reporter and author of "Jasper on Fire: Five Days of Hell in a Rocky Mountain Paradise," discusses the alarming parallels between wildfires in Jasper and Los Angeles. He shares gripping personal accounts that illustrate the communal trauma intertwined with these disasters. Scace highlights the challenges faced by firefighters and advocates for improved fire safety measures and changes in building codes. The emotional strain of wildfire combat is explored, blending bravery and humor in this high-stakes environment.
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Mayor's Deep Loss from Fire
- Matthew Scace shares how the Jasper mayor lost his lifelong home in the wildfire, highlighting the deep personal trauma.
- Such losses illustrate the profound human impact beyond the fire itself.
Indigenous Fires Maintained Forest Balance
- Indigenous fire practices involved controlled burns that maintained forest health through natural fire cycles.
- Modern fire suppression increased forest density, creating tinderbox conditions.
Fire Smarting Homes Protect Communities
- Fire breaks removing trees far from towns can help protect urban areas but are difficult and impact wildlife.
- "Fire smarting" homes by clearing combustible materials near structures is crucial for wildfire defense.
