BC cannon fights world fires

What sets it apart isn’t just the machine itself. It’s the system. A custom-built water tender carries an additional 5,600 gallons and stages on accessible ground while the Cannon pushes into the toughest terrain. Together, the pair can deploy more than 40,000 gallons of water in a single day.

“My idea is simply to get more water on a fire faster and more safely,” said Ron Fawcett.

Co-owner Trask Fawcett says the system keeps water flowing steadily onto the fire, which removes the biggest delay in wildfire fighting: having to go back to the water source.

“When the water source is five kilometres away, it almost takes two tenders just to keep the water going,” he said. “But when you do that, you can really pump the water on the fire.”

Every unit is fabricated in Vanderhoof at the White River Contracting facility. Four machines have been built so far, with more on the way. The first was purchased by the Tsay Keh Dene Nation in northern B.C. Uruguay has since purchased two units, and active interest is now coming from South Africa, Italy, Hawaii, and the U.S. military.

Trask Fawcett says the stakes couldn’t be higher: “It’s always sad news when you hear about firefighter deaths every year. We hope that number goes down because of this, because it takes fewer people into dangerous situations.”

With a patent pending and fire season approaching, the team is working to gain recognition across the province.

They hope to be ready to help wherever BC’s dry areas need them most.

For more information, visit thefawcettcannon.ca

by Dave Branco

BC cannon fights world fires

What's Trending