Oakville Fire Department Hosts Cree Nation Fire Prevention Officer for Month-Long Mentorship

By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

The Oakville Fire Department recently hosted Mr. George Napash, a Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) from the Cree Nation of Chisasibi, as part of a groundbreaking month-long mentorship program focused on enhancing fire prevention strategies and public safety outreach. The initiative is designed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing between Ontario fire departments and Indigenous communities.

Launched on January 31, 2025, the Fire Prevention Officer Mentorship Program is the first of its kind in Canada. The program brought 10 FPOs from the Cree Nations of Northern Québec to Southern Ontario, where they worked alongside 11 local fire departments. This opportunity allowed each FPO to gain valuable hands-on experience in establishing and improving fire safety programs within their communities. During the month-long mentorship, the FPOs learned key strategies in fire safety education, community risk reduction, and prevention techniques, equipping them with practical knowledge they can take back to their communities.

“We are proud to have participated in the inaugural Fire Prevention Officer Mentorship Program with the Cree Nations of Northern Québec,” said Oakville Mayor Rob Burton. “This program provided a valuable opportunity for collaboration and knowledge sharing, strengthening our commitment to fire safety and community partnerships.”

Mr. Napash’s mentorship in Oakville concluded on March 14, 2025. His time in the community included participating in school and community outreach events, conducting fire safety inspections, and engaging in training sessions. These activities helped strengthen the partnership between the Oakville Fire Department and the Cree Nation of Chisasibi, while also promoting a broader dialogue on fire prevention practices.

“It has been our pleasure to host Cree Nation’s Fire Prevention Officer for a month-long mentorship on fire prevention strategies,” said Fire Chief Paul Boissonneault of Oakville Fire. “We may be from different provinces, but we have a unified goal towards fire safety, and we all serve with pride and commitment for the betterment of our residents.”

The Town of Oakville, situated on Treaty 14 and Treaty 22 lands, which are the traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, has long been dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities. Oakville’s commitment is part of its Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility strategy, which actively fosters partnerships with Indigenous communities and supports programs, services, and recognition that honour their culture.

“Fire prevention is so vital for our communities, especially with the unique challenges we face,” said Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty of the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee)/Cree Nation Government. “This mentorship program will give our Fire Prevention Officers the knowledge and support needed to better protect our communities and build a safer future for all in Eeyou Istchee.”