Background and Objectives

The First Nations Fire Protection Strategy (FNFPS) is a national framework designed to enhance fire prevention, protection, and emergency preparedness in First Nations communities across Canada. Developed by the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) in collaboration with Indigenous leaders, fire service professionals, and government partners, the strategy aims to reduce fire-related fatalities, injuries, and property damage in First Nations communities, where fire risks are disproportionately high compared to non-Indigenous communities.

Why the Strategy is Needed?

First Nations communities face significantly higher fire risks due to several systemic challenges, including:

• Limited fire protection infrastructure, such as fire stations and hydrants.
• Inadequate housing conditions that increase fire hazards.
• Geographic isolation, which delays emergency response times.
• Underfunding for fire services, equipment, and training.
• Lack of fire prevention education and awareness programs tailored to First Nations.

Key Goals of the Strategy

The FNFPS is built around six key pillars that guide action toward improving fire safety in First Nations:

1. Fire Prevention and Public Education – Increasing awareness and education on fire risks, prevention, and home safety.
2. Community Infrastructure and Response Capacity – Ensuring that First Nations have access to proper firefighting equipment, fire stations, and hydrant systems.
3. Legislation and Governance – Advocating for the recognition of First Nations jurisdiction over fire safety and strengthening fire protection regulations.
4. Fire Service Training and Certification – Expanding training programs to certify First Nations firefighters and emergency responders.
5. Data Collection and Research – Improving data tracking on fire incidents to identify trends and areas for improvement.
6. Funding and Partnerships – Securing sustainable funding for fire prevention initiatives, infrastructure, and emergency response programs.

Impact and Implementation

The First Nations Fire Protection Strategy (2023-2028) sets the foundation for long-term, sustainable improvements in fire safety and emergency response in First Nations communities. It emphasizes self-determination and community-led initiatives, recognizing that First Nations must have the resources and authority to implement fire safety solutions that meet their unique needs. The strategy also calls for collaboration between First Nations, federal and provincial governments, and fire protection organizations to close the fire safety gap and ensure all communities have the necessary tools to prevent and respond to fire emergencies effectively.

The objective of this webinar series project is to develop an implementation plan for the National Fire Strategy, outlining clear actions, priorities, and roles for each pillar. The plan will serve as a roadmap to enhance fire safety and emergency preparedness in First Nations communities. Additionally, a toolkit will be created to support implementation, providing practical resources, guidance, and best practices tailored to the needs of First Nations leadership, Fire Chiefs, firefighters, emergency coordinators, and trainers.

First Nations Fire Protection Strategy