Wakaw and Cudworth fire crews are in La Ronge trying to save properties from a dangerous wildfire (Wakaw/Hoodoo Fire and Rescue)

By Cam Lee

Local support

Evacuees receive community support as local firefighters battle wildfires

Jun 4, 2025 | 10:27 AM

As wildfires continue to rage in northern Saskatchewan, local firefighters and groups are doing their best to help the communities and residents affected.

Firefighters from Wakaw and Cudworth were sent from Weyakwin to La Ronge on Monday. When they arrived, they were “met with heavily deteriorating conditions from the Pisew fire,” according to their social media update.

(Wakaw/Hoodoo Fire and Rescue)

The crews were sent to pick up fire retardant to protect power infrastructure along Highway 2, but they were unable to do so because of the worsening conditions.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency then advised the crews from Wakaw and Cudworth to stay in La Ronge and help protect the community.

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The organizations deployed two more members with a Tanker to meet up with the existing crew in La Ronge, and on Tuesday, they were tasked with structural protection and fire patrol in and around the community.

(Wakaw/Hoodoo Fire and Rescue)

“Crews battled a large structure fire for several hours with 10+ apparatus on scene,” a quote from the Wakaw/Cudworth social media page indicated.

Crews from Humboldt were also sent to La Ronge from Sucker River to battle structure fires on Tuesday.

(Humboldt Fire Department/Facebook)

Meanwhile, several local groups and communities are accepting donations in support of evacuees from the wildfires.

The Marguerite Riel Centre in Melfort is working with evacuees from Creighton, Flin Flon, and northern First Nations communities that are staying in the Melfort area.

Donations that are needed include:

• Toiletries (shaving cream, razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and deodorant)
• Diapers, formula, baby wipes, and diaper cream
• Food, healthy snacks, and toddler snacks
• Towels and wash cloths
• Calming or stress relief items, including fidget toys
• Items for Elders, teas, large print activities, card games, sugar-free treats, and cultural related items.
• Gift cards for local businesses between $10 -$25 (please note for accountability, those receiving the gift cards will need to sign for them)

“We may need gently used or new camping items and strollers, and will post those items as needed,” the MRC said. They added that any excess items will be passed on to James Smith Cree Nation, as they are also housing evacuees and are in need of donations.

James Smith is accepting similar items to those above, and is also requesting blankets, socks, underwear, feminine hygiene products, children’s activities, and adult diapers of all sizes.

Two busloads of evacuees from the Northern wildfires have arrived at James Smith, and they say any support is appreciated.

North East Outreach and Support Services is also a donation drop-off centre to support Muskoday First Nation’s efforts to help fire evacuees.

“They are wanting toiletries, towels, blankets, sleeping bags, cots, and clothing as those arriving last night had very little,” NEOSS stated.

The drop off location is 124 McKendry Ave West, Melfort.

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cam.lee@pattisonmedia.com