Henvey Inlet First Nation evacuation order extended
HENVEY INLET FIRST NATION (August 2) – The evacuation order for Henvey Inlet First Nation (HIFN) residents has been extended to August 10th, due to heavy smoke from the Parry Sound Forest Fire 33.
Chief and Council issued a State of Emergency of July 21st, which initiated the evacuation from the community. Leadership will continue to reassess the evacuation order on a weekly basis dependant on reports from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF). The health and safety of HIFN citizens is the first and foremost concern of Leadership, who will only rescind the evacuation order when it is deemed absolutely safe to do so.
Chief Wayne McQuabbie extends his support to neighbouring communities also affected by the fire. He says, “We understand that fire crews are staving off the fire from jumping the Lower Pickerel River, and we’re hoping it doesn’t jump over where there is a higher density of residents and cottagers.”
HIFN is grateful for the fire crews and support staff working on extinguishing the fire. “The next couple of days will be a challenge for MNRF fire crews due to wind and dry conditions. So far, crews had good results combating the fire. Sprinkler systems are in place on every household and building in the community as a precautionary measure,” says Chief McQuabbie.
Community members are understandably worried and concerned about their homes, and media is encouraged to respect the privacy of HIFN citizens and contact the Communications Coordinator for interviews. Understanding and cooperation from media during this very stressful time is greatly appreciated.
Contact information:
Jennifer Periera
705.698.7356
Communications Coordinator