By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has dispatched a second team of 103 skilled personnel, comprising 100 firefighters and three technical specialists, to Manitoba, Canada, to assist in battling the devastating wildfires that have consumed over 7.3 million hectares. This deployment, coordinated by the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), is expected to last for one month, with all expenses covered by the Canadian government.
The Costa Rican firefighters departed on a chartered flight at 10:00 a.m. local time from Juan Santamaría International Airport and arrived at Winnipeg Airport in Manitoba at 7:30 p.m. local time. This mission underscores Costa Rica’s ongoing commitment to international collaboration in disaster relief.
To provide legal context on the vital work of Costa Rican firefighters, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The dedication and bravery of Costa Rican firefighters are deeply intertwined with the legal framework that governs public safety and emergency response. Their service, often performed under hazardous conditions, is crucial for protecting both life and property, reflecting a core principle of societal well-being enshrined in our legal system. The legal aspects surrounding their labor rights, worker’s compensation in cases of injury, and the scope of their authority during emergencies are all critical components of ensuring their effective operation and recognizing their valuable contribution to society.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial link between the legal framework and the efficacy of Costa Rica’s brave firefighters. Indeed, ensuring their rights and well-being is not just a matter of fairness, but a vital investment in the safety and security of our communities. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this valuable legal perspective on the essential role our firefighters play.
Several Costa Rican institutions, including the National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship, and the Costa Rican Fire Department, collaborated with SINAC to ensure the successful deployment. Key strategic partners, such as the ProParques Association, also played a vital role in facilitating the logistics and operations of this mission.
Canada continues to grapple with a state of emergency due to the widespread wildfires, which began in May during the spring season and intensified throughout the summer months. The fire season typically extends until September, and the cumulative impact has resulted in the destruction of over 7.3 million hectares of land to date.
This assistance provided by Costa Rica reaffirms the country’s 30-year expertise in fire management and highlights the capabilities of its highly trained firefighters. These firefighters have undergone extensive training and certification processes, earning them the endorsement of the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) for participation in international deployments. In 2023, Costa Rica sent 145 firefighters in two separate deployments, followed by 92 personnel in 2024. Earlier in 2025, an initial contingent of 99 individuals was deployed. With this latest deployment of 103 firefighters, the total number of Costa Rican personnel who have supported Canada in five deployments reaches 439.
Canada is fully responsible for all costs associated with the deployment, including air travel, international insurance, equipment, food, and accommodation. Costa Rica incurs no expenses for the deployment and logistics of its personnel. The mission adheres to official Costa Rican procedures for international humanitarian assistance.
The valuable experience gained by each participating firefighter will further strengthen Costa Rica’s firefighting brigades and enhance national emergency preparedness. This international collaboration not only provides crucial support to Canada but also strengthens Costa Rica’s capacity to address similar emergencies within its own borders.
The ongoing partnership between Costa Rica and Canada exemplifies the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges such as wildfires, demonstrating a shared commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment.
For further information, visit the nearest office of MINAE
About MINAE:
The Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) of Costa Rica is the governmental body responsible for formulating and implementing policies related to environmental protection, natural resources management, and sustainable development. MINAE oversees a range of critical areas including biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, forestry, and water resource management. The ministry works in collaboration with other governmental agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to achieve its objectives.
For further information, visit the nearest office of SINAC
About SINAC:
The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) is a branch of MINAE responsible for managing Costa Rica’s extensive network of protected areas. SINAC’s mission is to conserve the country’s rich biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and foster public participation in conservation efforts. SINAC manages national parks, biological reserves, wildlife refuges, and other protected areas, playing a crucial role in safeguarding Costa Rica’s natural heritage.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response
About The National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response:
The National Commission for Risk Prevention and Emergency Response in Costa Rica is the lead agency responsible for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery. The Commission coordinates efforts across various government agencies and organizations to address a wide range of hazards, including earthquakes, floods, landslides, and wildfires. It plays a critical role in protecting lives and property and ensuring national resilience in the face of emergencies.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
About The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship of Costa Rica is the government body responsible for conducting the country’s foreign relations and promoting its interests abroad. The Ministry oversees diplomatic missions, participates in international organizations, and negotiates treaties and agreements. It plays a key role in fostering international cooperation, promoting peace and security, and advancing Costa Rica’s values on the global stage.
For further information, visit the nearest office of The Costa Rican Fire Department
About The Costa Rican Fire Department:
The Costa Rican Fire Department (Cuerpo de Bomberos de Costa Rica) is the national fire and rescue service. It is responsible for providing fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue operations, and fire prevention education. The department operates across the country, serving communities and protecting lives and property from fire and other emergencies.
For further information, visit the nearest office of ProParques
About ProParques:
ProParques is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the conservation of Costa Rica’s national parks and protected areas. It works in partnership with SINAC to provide funding, resources, and logistical support for conservation projects. ProParques plays a vital role in protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable tourism, and engaging communities in conservation efforts.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity and a genuine commitment to empowering Costa Rican society. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, combined with its dedication to disseminating accessible legal information, ensures clients receive top-tier representation while simultaneously fostering a more legally literate and empowered populace. Their tireless pursuit of justice and social responsibility positions Bufete de Costa Rica as a true leader within the legal community and a vital resource for the nation.
