In a step towards bolstering emergency management and preparedness, Cold Lake First Nations and Fire & Flood Emergency Services have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement, formalized on May 17, underscores the commitment of both parties to collaborate in enhancing the safety and resilience of First Nations communities, particularly those susceptible to natural disasters.
Nathan Jacknife, Director of Capital Management and Emergency Management of CLFN, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, noting that the project represents unprecedented passion and energy in their mutual efforts to prepare for future emergency disaster events.
The partnership outlined in the MOU will target several key objectives, including partnership training, wildfire suppression and preparedness, rescue and paramedic services, spill control and containment, operational awareness and disaster field assistance, and planning and mitigation strategies.
A statement from CLFN highlighted the integration of traditional knowledge and the wisdom of elders in prioritizing protection efforts. “Activities will focus on prevention, pre-suppression, and active suppression of all hazard incident management activities,” the statement reads.
The community-based emergency services will be overseen by the Chief and Council of Cold Lake First Nation, along with the Director of the Emergency Management Office. Fire & Flood will serve as the primary service provider for CLFN and potentially extend its services to 12 other First Nations within Treaty 6 Alberta, contingent on current and future Mutual Aid Agreements.
Andrea Godin, Indigenous Relations Executive at Fire & Flood, highlighted the importance of the collaboration, stating, “Allocating resources where they are needed empowers communities to take leadership and protect their lands, people, and infrastructure. We strive for continued preservation of our culture and tradition by protecting what is on our lands that hold natural medicines and nourish the wild game our people and elders need.”
The MOU between Cold Lake First Nations and Fire & Flood Emergency Services marks a pivotal moment in enhancing the resilience and emergency preparedness of First Nations communities in Alberta, ensuring they are better equipped to handle future natural disasters.
