The municipality clarified the steps it’s taking to include Indigenous communities in the region in the case of an emergency.
At a special council meeting on Dec.11, the Athabasca Tribal Council presented the findings of a report that was done after the wildfire.
The report found that during the evacuation, Indigenous communities faced a lack of communication from all levels of government and their inclusion was limited.
Regional Fire Chief Jody Butz explained the newly developed Regional Emergency Management Plan, previously known as the Municipal Emergency Management Plan.
“Very quickly it was discovered that a successful plan requires the involvement of local community members. This is what informed the fundamental change towards community-based emergency plans. What I believe is the key to our success in our region.”
Each rural community will now have a unique plan based on its demographics and hazards.
Butz said eight of 15 community plans they’re working on are expected to be finalized in early 2019. Community and regional plans would be reviewed annually and adjusted as needed.
“These community plans are the spot where we can recognize traditions and cultural sensitivities of the Indigenous people during emergency situations.”
A free, voluntary and confidential self-registry is also being developed for the vulnerable population of the region to ensure that first responders allocate services effectively.
Regional Emergency Services has also committed to educating and training local people. A national FireSmart guide for Indigenous people is also expected to be released early in the new year.
Mayor Don Scott requested Emergency Advisory Committee, along with Indigenous leaders, partners and different levels of government meet within the first 90 days of 2019 to decide the next step.
