Sunday, June 1, 2025
11:41 a.m.
La Ronge Tri-Community
Working Together to Stay Ready: Wildfire Planning Update
There is no evacuation order in place, and according to the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, there is no threat of fire to the community at this time. Today, leadership from the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, the Town of La Ronge, and the Northern Village of Air Ronge met today with Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) and other emergency officials to ensure we are prepared for every possible scenario.
Wildfires continue to burn south and east of the La Ronge region. Winds from the west have caused some of these fires—like the Shoe Fire—to travel quickly overnight, impacting highways and creating smoky conditions. While these fires do not currently pose a direct threat to our communities, road closures and thick smoke are a reminder of how quickly things can change.
Today’s meeting was about readiness, not alarm. Together, we are reviewing potential impacts on food and fuel supply chains, emergency access routes, and health supports. Our focus is on ensuring that the systems we need are in place before they are needed.
As part of this planning, local fire crews are working hard behind the scenes—clearing old fire breaks, moving equipment into place, and strengthening our defenses. There is a Fresh Air Shelter open at the JRMCC Arena, which offers a clean space with air scrubbers, food, and rest areas for anyone affected by the smoke. This is one of many ways we are looking after each other.
We know how quickly misinformation spreads. That’s why this message is coming from all three local governments, working in partnership. When our members, friends, and neighbours are informed about what’s happening—and what isn’t—it helps reduce stress and confusion.
We want our communities to feel empowered, not afraid. This means:
• Topping up your gas tank when possible, just in case.
• Keeping a small “go bag” of essentials ready: ID, medication, phone charger, snacks.
• Using the JRMCC Fresh Air Shelter if smoke is affecting your health.
• Checking reliable sources like the Highway Hotline for updates.
While there is no threat of fire to the Tri-Community at this time, we are in a period of heightened awareness. Conditions may change with the weather, but our commitment to each other remains steady. We’ve been through this before—and by staying calm, informed, and connected, we’ll get through it again.
On behalf of:
Lac La Ronge Indian Band
Town of La Ronge
Northern Village of Air Ronge
Stay safe, stay prepared, and thank you for looking out for one another.