WIKWEMIKONG–Members of the Wikwemikong Fire Department have been battling a blaze deep in the community’s landfill.
Wikwemikong First Nation Chief Duke Peltier posted an update for the community earlier today.
“A heavy equipment contractor has been engaged to assist the fire dept,” posted Chief Peltier. “They are attempting to smother the fire with sand and remove the introduction of oxygen.”
Chief Peltier reported that “MNR water bombers have come twice since Friday to ensure the continued protection of the forest.”
The chief assured the community that a number of steps are being taken to ensure the community’s safety and to contain the fire.
“We are instituting a environmental monitoring regime for air quality and water course management,” posted the chief. “INAC (Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada) is supporting the community through the identification of additional resources. They have asked us to work with the ministry of environment.”
In addition to the short term tackling of the issue, Chief Peltier has an eye on the longer term as well. “Additionally, we are continuing to advocate for longer term solution that we were currently designing in collaboration with INAC to haul out refuse and recyclables to a licensed facility,” he said.
