Oakville Fire honoured to host Cree Nation Fire Prevention Officer in month-long mentorship program

Underlining the town’s commitment in supporting Indigenous culture and communities, the Oakville Fire department recently hosted Mr. George Napash of Cree Nation of Chisasibi’s Fire Services to share expertise in fire prevention strategies and public safety outreach.

The Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) Mentorship Program, the first of its kind in Canada, was launched on January 31, 2025 with 10 FPOs from the Cree Nations of Northern Québec travelling to Southern Ontario to work in conjunction with 11 fire departments to gain experience in establishing their own programs at home. As part of the program, each FPO was partnered with an Ontario fire department for one month, supporting them in bringing valuable fire safety knowledge and experience to their community. More background details about this program are available in the January 31, 2025 joint news release.  

Mr. Napash’s mentorship in Oakville concludes on March 14, 2025, and included hands-on experience in fire safety education and community risk reduction strategies. Specifically, this mentorship provided a direct experience through a variety of school and community outreach events, fire safety inspections, training sessions and friendly exchanges about the fire prevention needs and approaches between both departments and their commitment to community safety.

Background 

• The Town of Oakville was founded on the treaty lands and traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. The town sits on both Treaty 14 and Treaty 22 land. 
• As part of Oakville’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility strategy, the town actively partners with, raises awareness of and supports a number of Indigenous initiatives through programs, services and recognitions on town. Read more on the Indigenous Culture and Community page.

Quotes

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

– Mayor Rob Burton

“It has been our pleasure to host Cree Nation’s Fire Prevention Officer for a month-long mentorship on fire prevention strategies. 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.”  

– Fire Chief Paul Boissonneault, Oakville Fire 

"Fire prevention is so vital for our communities, especially with the unique challenges we face. 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." 

– Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty, Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istche)/Cree Nation Government