OCN FireSmart Program

In fall 2025, NFMC worked in partnership with the Opaskwayak Cree Nation Fire Department and OCN Government Services to design and launch the community’s first comprehensive FireSmart Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) assessment system. Working closely with Fire Chief Gordie Lathlin and Public Safety Manager Laverne Constant, NFMC helped develop the Survey123 assessment forms, configure Field Maps, and establish the workflows and safe work procedures used by OCN’s survey teams.

As part of this initiative, survey crews completed more than 730 structure level assessments across the community. All assessment data feeds directly into a real time FireSmart dashboard, providing clear visibility into hazard exposure, ignition risks, Home Ignition Zone scores, and Priority 3 zone ratings.

This system equips Opaskwayak Cree Nation with accurate, accessible information to support long term wildfire planning, targeted mitigation efforts, and informed decision making. The project reflects a strong collaboration focused on community safety, preparedness, and the practical use of data to reduce wildfire risk.

Learn more about FireSmart Canada Programs here