Title: Safety Issues Highlighted in Tragic Death of Ontario Wildfire Fighter in British Columbia
Subtitle: WorkSafeBC Report Reveals Critical Failures in UTV Safety Protocols
Article:
A recent report from WorkSafeBC has brought to light significant safety issues surrounding the death of 25-year-old Zak Muise, an Ontario wildfire fighter who tragically lost his life while battling the Donnie Creek wildfire in northeastern British Columbia on July 28, 2023.
Muise, originally from Waterford, Ontario, was operating a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) when it rolled over, leading to his fatal injuries. The WorkSafeBC report, obtained by CBC News, details several concerning factors that contributed to the incident, including inadequate supervision, failure to conduct proper vehicle inspections, and the absence of necessary safety gear.
On the day of the accident, Muise was not wearing a helmet, and the UTV he was in had damaged retention netting that was improperly secured. The report notes that this netting, meant to protect occupants during a rollover, was tied on rather than properly attached, rendering it ineffective. Additionally, the UTV’s pre-use inspection was not completed, which could have identified these safety deficiencies.
The B.C. Wildfire Service, responsible for overseeing the worksite, was criticized in the report for failing to enforce safety regulations, including the use of seat belts, helmets, and proper vehicle inspections. The report also highlights that the wildfire service’s off-road vehicle training did not include UTV operation, further exacerbating the risk to workers.
In response to the findings, Bruce Ralston, B.C.’s Minister of Forests, emphasized that the safety of fire crew members is the “first priority” and that measures are being taken to strengthen training and safety protocols. The Ministry has committed to expanding UTV-specific training for supervisors and ensuring that all UTVs undergo thorough inspections before use.
Muise, described in an online obituary as “loved by many,” is survived by his parents and five older siblings. His untimely death, along with that of another young firefighter, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those on the front lines of wildfire management and the critical need for stringent safety measures.