Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) assistance refers to military support provided to civilian authorities during emergencies and disasters that exceed local and provincial response capacity. When floods, wildfires, ice storms, or other emergencies overwhelm civilian resources, provinces can request federal assistance through the CAF. Military personnel have supported sandbag operations during floods, evacuation assistance during wildfires, power restoration during ice storms, and COVID-19 response in long-term care facilities. The CAF operates under 'aid to civil authority' protocols, supporting civilian leadership rather than taking control. Requesting military assistance involves formal processes through provincial emergency management to federal authorities.