BC First Nations Emergency Management and Risk Reduction focuses on ensuring the safety and preparedness of First Nations communities in British Columbia in the face of emergencies and risks. Initiatives aim to implement strategies and plans and advocate for resources to mitigate potential hazards, respond effectively to crises, and promote resilience within First Nations populations. It underscores the importance of collaboration, cultural considerations, and sustainable practices to safeguard communities and enhance their ability to cope with various emergencies and risks.
Collaboration Model: Towards a New Multilateral Emergency Management Agreement in British Columbia
The purpose of this discussion paper is to engage First Nations in British Columbia (BC) in exploring a shift from the current bilateral service agreement to a multi-lateral agreement involving Canada, the Province of BC, and First Nations. Chiefs in BC mandated the First Nations Leadership Council to carry out this work through resolutions passed at the BC Assembly of First Nations, First Nations Summit, and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (attached in Appendix A). The objective of this paper is to present a collaboration model to Chiefs in BC for consideration, enabling First Nations, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), and Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) to work towards a new multi-lateral agreement on emergency management. Wildfires in BC from April 1, 2021, to March 28, 2022, numbered over 1,642, burning 869 million hectares, with 181 evacuation orders, 304 evacuation alerts, a 56-day provincial state of emergency, and costs of $565 million and estimated insurance damages of $102 million, causing catastrophic loss to lands and critical infrastructure. Additionally, flooding in BC reached unprecedented levels in 2021, causing at least $450 million in damage, impacting 42 First Nations communities, and resulting in mudslides, landslides, and infrastructure damage. Despite significant resource allocation, they remain insufficient and/or poorly managed to address First Nations' needs, challenges, and priorities.
Action Plan for Risk Reduction by First Nations in BC
The Action Plan for Disaster Risk Reduction by First Nations in BC provides a roadmap for building community resilience and preparedness, strengthening infrastructure and building standards, and enhancing emergency response and recovery capacities. By implementing this plan, First Nations in BC can reduce disaster risk and build a safer and more sustainable future for their communities.
