Fire crews worked day and night during a wildfire threat last June. (Image Credit: Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

emergency management

Council asked to consider stay-and-support structure for wildfire response

Mar 20, 2026 | 5:00 PM

La Ronge council is being asked to work with residents and emergency management to explore how a structured stay-and-support system could be implemented for the town.  

The request comes in the form of a letter to council from La Ronge resident and La Ronge Cabin Owners Association member Shaune Lapworth. He wrote that recent experiences with wildfire has shown the community has a large amount of untapped potential. 

“Many residents possess valuable skills, equipment, and operational experience that could support emergency response efforts,” Lapworth noted. 

“We have mechanics who can keep equipment running, people with logistics and coordination experience, equipment operators, and residents who are capable and willing to assist in practical ways when emergency occurs.” 

Lapworth states a stay-and-support structure is not meant to interfere with professional emergency services, but allow qualified residents to support emergency operations in roles where they can safely contribute. Examples include additional community security to help augment RCMP presence, equipment operation under the direction of emergency officials, communications and logistical support, fire watch or perimeter spotters to help identity threats early, and food preparation and distribution for responders and volunteers. 

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“With proper planning, training, and coordination, we can strengthen our community’s resilience and ensure that when the next emergency comes, we are not only protected – but also prepared to help,” Lapworth wrote.  

La Ronge council is expected to begin considering the idea at the next regular council meeting on Monday.

In addition, council will discuss a letter from Pawsitive Attitude Dog Training owner Jayme Woodhouse McKenzie in regards to her concerns about a potential homeless campground near her business, as well as provide input to administration on the development of a new naming policy for public buildings and streets.  

The entire agenda for Monday’s meeting can be found online here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com