July 25, 2023
Manitoba Government Announces Support for Life-Saving Fire and Safety Project in Five Northern First Nations
– – –Approximately 2,250 Smoke Alarms to be Delivered Throughout the Summer in Collaboration with Bison Fire Protection and Perimeter Aviation: Clarke, Smith
The Manitoba government is providing $50,000 to purchase smoke alarms for five First Nations in northern Manitoba, Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Eileen Clarke and Municipal Relations Minister Andrew Smith announced today.
“Northern First Nations can be vulnerable to fires due to the remoteness of their locations and access to fire prevention,” said Clarke. “These alarms, along with education and training provided by Bison Fire Protection, and the ongoing partnership with the Office of the Fire Commissioner and local fire prevention officers, has the potential to save lives. Our government is proud to support this important project.”
The fire safety project is distributing approximately 2,250 smoke alarms to the First Nations of Garden Hill, St. Theresa Point, Red Sucker Lake, Wasagamack and Cross Lake.
“The rise in house fires with fatal outcomes in First Nations is tragic, and this targeted fire and life safety project is vital to stopping these preventable deaths,” said Smith. “The risk of dying in a reported home fire is reduced by 50 per cent in homes with working smoke alarms, and we commend our partners for initiating this project.”
The ministers noted the project is being offered in partnership with Perimeter Aviation, which will store, pack and ship the alarms, and Bison Fire Protection, which will provide fire safety education using a trainer and simulator.
“For more than 60 years, Perimeter Aviation has served northern First Nations with air services, building strong relationships and community connections. Thanks to the generosity and leadership of our partners, we can transport life-saving devices and promote fire prevention education,” said Joey Petrisor, chief executive officer and president, Perimeter Aviation. “We are fully committed to the communities we serve, working to support their well-being, prioritize safety, and foster sustainable economic growth.”
“Many Canadians don’t know that death due to fire is 10 times higher in Indigenous communities compared to other Canadian communities. This is unacceptable,” said Rob Read, president, Bison Fire Protection. “Beyond this terrible death statistic, fire also takes a toll on health care, housing and even education in these communities. We are living in an era of reconciliation, and I personally believe the actions taken in this initiative will benefit all Canadians for future generations.”
The alarms are being distributed at community barbecues throughout the summer, along with batteries, installation instructions and safety pamphlets, the ministers said.
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