Mattagami First Nation was on high alert as the Timmins 7 wildfire raged approximately 36 kilometres away from the community. Despite being well-prepared for a potential evacuation, concerns rise as the fire edges closer to the territory. Unlike the previous evacuation 11 years ago, the community has learned from that experience, with members having undergone natural disaster preparation courses. The emergency management coordinator emphasized that the decision to evacuate will be made on a daily basis, considering factors such as air quality. Vulnerable groups, including elders, youth, pregnant individuals, and those with asthma, will be the first to evacuate. The community is also seeking collaboration with Missanabie Cree First Nation for the evacuation process and plans to request funding for air filters to address potential air pollution issues in their 90 homes.

Mattagami First Nation is grappling with the imminent threat of the Timmins 7 wildfire, which is currently 36 kilometers away. In contrast to their unprepared evacuation in 2012, the community is now equipped with an evacuation plan and a crisis team that organized a registration night for residents. Concerns about air quality, especially for vulnerable members such as elders and children, are pivotal in deciding whether to evacuate. The community is actively engaging in daily joint command meetings with authorities monitoring the situation. Reflecting on the potential challenges of evacuation, including social issues like domestic violence and addictions, community members express apprehension about the future and ponder if the increasing frequency of such events is the “new normal.” Looking ahead, the leadership is considering fire mapping to identify high-risk areas and planning to seek funding for air filters to brace for worsening wildfire seasons.