Smokehouses are an important part of Haisla culture and play a significant role in traditional food preservation and community food security. The Fire Department recognizes the importance of these practices and believes they can continue safely while reducing wildfire risk.

Although Haisla Nation is not required to mirror provincial fire restrictions, we do have a responsibility to protect our community from wildfire. Rather than restricting smokehouse use, the Fire Department supports a practical, common-sense approach that focuses on reducing risk.

The Fire Department recommends that smokehouse fires:

• Be located away from homes, buildings, and combustible vegetation;
• Remain attended while burning;
• Have a charged hose, water supply, or fire extinguisher readily available; and
• Be capable of being safely extinguished if weather or fire conditions change.

Community members are also encouraged to contact the Fire Department if they would like advice on smokehouse placement or ways to reduce wildfire risk.

The Fire Department also continues to work closely with the Haisla Nation FireSmart Program to educate residents on wildfire prevention. Through home assessments, community outreach, and public education, FireSmart staff promote safe burning practices, vegetation management, and other simple steps that help reduce wildfire risk while supporting traditional activities.

The Fire Department supports the continued use of traditional smokehouses within the Haisla Nation, even when provincial wildfire restrictions are in place. We will continue to monitor wildfire conditions, provide public education through our FireSmart Program, and work with community members to ensure these important cultural practices can continue safely throughout wildfire season.