Fisher River Cree Nation Chief & Council issued a state of emergency on April 29, 2022, regarding the high risk of flooding of the Fisher River due to the recent weather events.
CURRENT SITUATION:
Fish Road is open to local traffic and for essential travel. The crews continue to monitor the road as frost is starting to rise. We recommend SUV’s and trucks only at this time and we advise you to take it slow as the ruts can damage your vehicle.
The road by Doug Murdock’s (pictured) is closed to traffic as conditions are deteriorating and large potholes are developing. The section of Highway 224 by Alison Murdock’s will remain closed to traffic until further notice.
Peguis First Nation crews continue to work on the “Mandi Mart” road; the conditions are also recommended for SUV’s and trucks. They continue to battle the water but they will work on it as needed to make it passable.
Highway 224 by the Peguis Fire Hall to the Peguis Multiplex will be closing at 6:00pm to 8:00am for emergency repairs. Road access is available on East Reservation Road, from Fern Sinclair’s to Midway is passable and recommended for travel, when Highway is closed. Only emergency vehicles will be allowed to pass through Peguis Track for emergency purposes during construction.
Today’s water levels show a drop south of Peguis. The high points are in the community suggesting the Crest is now moving through Fisher River Cree Nation. The crest is flowing slowly, so water levels locally will fluctuate.
36 homes have been tiger tubbed as of today and some “stranded” evacuees have made it home. If you are a “stranded” evacuee, call the command centre to see about road conditions – 431.256.0041 or 431.256.1024
Due to flood waters, phone lines maybe affected. Specifically, the Emergency Ambulance/Fire Number of 204.645.2000. If you are cut off when you are calling in an Emergency, please call back right away.
Security will remain on-going around the community.
Two RCMP officers are now placed in the community in case of emergencies; as well as the paramedics crews remain in the community.
Any members who are experiencing flooding of basements are to contact the Fisher River Flood Command Centre or the Housing On-Call number for further instructions – 431.256.0554
Members who feel there at risk of flooding are to contact the Fisher River Fire Department – 431.256.0077
The Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for homes where wells and water tanks are in flooded areas as a precaution. Individuals are still able to wash dishes, do laundry, shower and washing of hands. Digesting without boiling the water is not recommended.
Support from Indigenous Services Canada continue, and we remain in hourly contact with officials from Peguis First Nation, Manitoba Water Stewardship and Manitoba Highways.
Lastly, we ask for our community members patience and support during this difficult time. Lateral violence will not be tolerated as our emergency crews and frontline workers are working 24/7 to ensure the safety of our members. We all continue to put our best foot forward and work as diligently as possible.
We will continue to update the community as needed.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS:
Fisher River Flood Command Centre – 431.256.0041 or 431.256.1024
Fisher River Fire Department (Tiger Damns and flooding situations) – 431.256.0077
Housing Department On-Call (Sump pump issues, basement flooding, water, and other housing issues) – 431.256.0554
Health Services On-Call – 431.256.0395
Fisher River Safety Officer – 204.308.0553
Ambulance – 204.645.2000
MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT CONTACT NUMBERS:
Rainbow House Wellness Centre After Hours – 431.256.0359
Rob Desrochers – 204.250.6817
Heather Kerr-Vermeulen – 204.890.9849