May 17, 2024 – Cold Lake First Nations, Alberta
In a significant step towards enhancing emergency management and preparedness, Cold Lake First Nations (CLFN) and Fire & Flood Emergency Services proudly announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This milestone event underscores the commitment of both parties to collaborate in strengthening the safety and resilience of First Nations communities, particularly in areas prone to natural disasters.
The MOU was signed on May 17, 2024, in a ceremony hosted by Chief Kelsey Jacko of CLFN. Distinguished guests, including Mayor Copeland, Carole St. Onge, and members of Treaty 6, were in attendance, highlighting the importance of this partnership.
Nathan Jacknife, Director of Capital Management and Emergency Management for CLFN, expressed his gratitude for the vision and dedication behind this initiative. “This project represents unprecedented passion and energy in our mutual efforts to prepare for future emergency disaster events.”
Key objectives of the partnership include:
- Quality Partnership Training
- Wildfire Suppression & Preparedness
- Flood Mitigation Response and Preparedness
- Rescue & Paramedic Medical Services
- Spill Control and Containment
- Operational Awareness & Disaster Field Assistance
- Planning & Mitigation Strategies
Under this MOU, CLFN will leverage traditional knowledge and the wisdom of elders to prioritize protection efforts. Activities will focus on prevention, pre-suppression, and active suppression of all hazard incident management activities. The community-based Emergency Services will be directed by the Chief and Council of CLFN and the Director of Emergency Management Office.
Fire & Flood will serve as the sole service provider for CLFN and potentially 12 other First Nations from Treaty 6 Alberta under existing and future Mutual Aid Agreements. Services will include fire suppression, flood mitigation, rescue and paramedic medical services, spill control, and disaster awareness training.
Andrea Godin, Indigenous Relations Executive at Fire & Flood, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “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.”
This partnership represents a genuine atmosphere of respect and collaboration, aimed at maintaining, safeguarding, and sustaining optimal commitment to emergency preparedness and response. By supporting each other through disasters, the partnership aims to protect lives, livelihoods, and the environment, fostering a brighter future for all involved.
Cold Lake First Nations
Nathan Jacknife
Director of Capital Management
PO Box 1769, Cold Lake, AB, T9M 1P4
Phone: 780-594-7183 Cell: 780-404-7354