SASKATCHEWAN - Metis Nation - Saskatchewan (MN-S) declared a State of Emergency Saturday due to the ongoing wildfire situation in northern Saskatchewan.
Smoke has reached most areas of Saskatchewan with air quality statements and warnings in effect as a result, while the fires forced many to leave their homes.
“These wildfires are spreading so unpredictably, and citizens are being evacuated with little or no notice and no destination in place. They’re leaving behind their homes and their livelihoods with little more than uncertainty ahead,” said Glen McCallum, President of MN-S in a news release. “Our citizens are the heart of our Nation. We must be able to respond to their needs so that when they arrive at safe locations, they are welcomed with as many comforts from home as we can provide.”
MN-S says they’re willing to help in any way that they can, including expanding culturally grounded services, supplies, and shelter for those displaced.
As of 12:30 p.m. Saturday, there are 16 active wildfires in Saskatchewan, according to a dashboard on the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency website. Of the 16 fires, five are contained, seven are not contained, three are being closely monitored, and one has fire crews protecting property and infrastructure.
