NAN Commemorates Anniversary of Pikangikum House Fire with Progress Report on Fire Safety

THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler commemorates the fifth anniversary of a tragic house fire in Pikangikum First Nation with the launch today of a five-year progress report on NAN’s efforts to improve fire safety in all NAN First Nations communities.

“Today we honour the brief life of Amber Strang and all those who were taken from us far too soon. It has been five years since this terrible tragedy and we continue to pray for strength and healing for the families, Chief and Council and the entire Pikangikum community,” said Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler. “Nothing can heal the wounds from this terrible loss, but today we can acknowledge the tremendous work that has been done through Amber’s Fire Safety Campaign to improve fire safety in our communities. The incredible work highlighted in this report is the result of the cooperation between our Working Group, Tribal Councils, community leaders, fire departments and other professionals. Miigwetch to everyone for your dedication and contributions.”

NAN expresses heartfelt condolences to the surviving family members and honours the memory of those who were lost: Dean Strang (51), Annette Strang (49), Gilbert Strang (31), Sylvia Peters (41), Dietrich Peters (35), Faith Strang (24), Ireland Peters (4), Aubree Strang (2) and Amber Strang (5 months).

Amber’s Fire Safety Campaign was endorsed by Chiefs-in-Assembly in 2016 to promote fire safety and awareness in all NAN First Nations. The campaign is named in memory of Amber Strang, the youngest victim of the March 29, 2016 fire that claimed nine lives, including three generations of Amber’s family.

Amber’s Fire Safety Campaign is built on four pillars: Education, Training, Partnerships, and Capacity Building. Long-term goals include:

• Provide every home in NAN territory with a smoke detector.
• Increase fire safety awareness and education.
• Provide support for certification in wood burning systems and fire prevention services.

View the report and AFSC information: https://www.nan.ca/resources/fire-safety/

For more information please contact:
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