BC Wildfire Service has requested additional help from the Canadian Armed Forces to help fight this season of aggressive wildfires in the province.

The CAF is deploying 300 Tier III firefighting trained CAF members to assist with mop-up operations, monitor under control fires and provide air support where needed.

"British Columbia continues to deal with one of the most-devastating wildfire seasons in its history, with more than 650,000 hectares burned to date and hot, dry conditions expected to continue throughout most of the province. We are incredibly grateful for the tireless efforts of all those engaged in the fight, and we recognize that more resources will be needed to sustain this important work through September, so we're requesting those resources now," stated Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.

This will bring the total number of CAF personnel deployed for what's been deemed Operation LENTUS to approximately 650.

The federal government will also provide temporary lodging for firefighters transitioning between remote locations.

“The deployment of these additional CAF personnel, who join shipmates already standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other brave first responders, further demonstrates the commitment of the Government of Canada to doing its utmost to help British Columbians in need. Indeed, Joint Task Force Pacific has no more important task than assuring the safety and security of British Columbians," said Rear-Admiral Art McDonald, Commander Joint Task Force Pacific.

"I am very proud of the soldiers of 3rd Canadian Division, and am grateful for the support of their families as we deploy more Regular and Reserve troops to BC. Although we have many tasks, remaining 'Strong at Home' is the most important‎. We will continue to reinforce our federal and provincial partners as we help British Columbians in need," said Brigadier-General Trevor Cadieu, Commander 3rd Canadian Division/Joint Task Force West.

Support will remain in B.C. through September.

Currently there are 3,900 personnel fighting the wildfires.

By the end of this year's wildfire season, the province estimates that 650 CAF personnel will have been deployed.

In 2003, 920 military personnel supported B.C.'s efforts in fighting wildfires.