Due to dangerously dry conditions and recent community safety concerns, the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation is implementing enhanced protective measures. This includes a Fire Danger Warning, mandatory 9:00 PM youth curfew, wildlife safety protocols, and a crackdown on vandalism.
PART I: FIRE BAN (As of May 5, 2025)
All NCN Citizens must take immediate action to protect our land and community:
- No open bush/grass fires are permitted at any time.
- Cigarettes must be fully extinguished and disposed of in safe containers. Never toss them out of vehicle windows.
- Burning barrels must be completely contained.
- Pit fires are permitted only if actively monitored with water or an extinguisher nearby.
- Be sure all fires are fully extinguished after use.
Parents: Speak with your children about fire safety and keep all matches and lighters out of reach.
Deliberately set grass fires endanger homes, lives, and property. Setting fires can result in criminal charges, including conspiracy to commit murder if injury or death occurs. Parents will be held responsible for their children’s actions.
PART II: YOUTH CURFEW ENFORCEMENT (Effective Immediately)
To keep our children and community safe:
- All minors must be home by 9:00 PM.
- NCN Child and Family Services (CFS) will be notified if children are found roaming unsupervised.
- Parents who fail to protect their children may:
- Be placed on the PO or Alternative Benefits program (if receiving EIA)
- Face other penalties under NCN law.
- Face additional consequences and fines.
NCN employees who violate community laws, including fire regulations or curfew enforcement, will face disciplinary
action by their employer.
PART III: VANDALISM & REWARD NOTICE
To protect our Nation’s infrastructure, NCN is offering a $500.00 reward for information leading to the prosecution
of anyone caught vandalizing:
- NCN homes
- NCN buildings and offices
- The skatepark
- Any and all NCN-owned property
Vandalism will not be tolerated. Consequences, fines and criminal charges will be pursued to the fullest extent of the law.
PART IV: BEAR SIGHTING – ADDITIONAL SAFETY CONCERN
A mother bear and her cubs have been sighted in the area around the high school. For everyone’s safety:
- Keep children indoors after curfew and avoid walking alone, especially near the high school.
- Do not leave garbage or food outdoors.
- Report sightings to NCN Conservation or the RCMP.
REMEMBER:
- Report all fires, suspicious activity, or violations immediately to the NCN Fire Department at (204) 484-2911 or to the RCMP.
- Controlled burns will be conducted by NCN Fire & Safety this week for emergency prevention purposes. These are professionally managed.
Let’s all do our part to protect NCN – our people, our land, and our future.
Ekosani,
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Chief and Council, NCN Fire Department, NCN CFS and NCN Public Safety
