The Assembly of First Nations says the recent tragedy on the Ahtahkakoop First Nation is a stark reminder of the need for better First Nation fire services across the country.
Two people lost their lives in late December when a blaze caused by a wood burning stove set the home on fire.
In a release, AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde says many First Nation homes use wood stoves due to the high cost of heating and electricity.
Bellegarde says many of these wood burning stoves are not inspected due to the absence of fire departments in First Nations communities.
The National Chief says the federal government has talked about legislation to enforce regulations for housing on reserves, but Bellegarde says regulations without support and funding will not change the situation.
A recent report by the UN says the housing situation of Indigenous peoples in Canada has reached a “crisis level.”
Bellegarde says the government should be working with First Nations immediately to ensure safe homes for all First Nations people.