Mushkegowuk Firefighting Training CAF Borden

This is a segment of the half-hour documentary entitled Canadian Armed Force Firefighting Training - Mushkegowuk Council. The documentary follows members of five remote Northern First Nations on the James Bay coast who were prompted by a tragic house fire in one of the Muskegowuk communities (Peawunuck) to seek out proper firefighting training. Sadly there was one casualty a young boy who required special attention at Sick Kids Hospital and later died as a result of his injuries. As a result, Mushkegowuk Council, recognized that firefighting training for the communities within their jurisdiction was urgent and necessary. Canadian Ranger, Luke Gull, who was directly affected by the tragedy suggested Mushkegowuk Council, in conjunction with the local Canadian Ranger contingent in Moose Factory, led by Dave Morrison, approached Canadian Armed Forces - Base Borden. At Base Borden exists the Canadian Rangers Division of the Armed Forces. Through efforts by the Canadian Rangers, Base Borden agreed to play host to trainees from the five Muskegowuk communities to embark on firefighting.

Part of the backstory missing in this condensed version is the preceding weeks of practical training that took place in the communities. For the most part, the theoretical portion of the training began in late 95, culminating with this one week intensive training at the Base Borden which is purported to be one of the best facilities of its type in North America.

In addition, the conclusion of the long format story included the homecoming celebrations that were staged upon the return of the participants to their respective settlements. Today, Muskegowuk communities are well equipped and trained to prevent similar tragedies from occurring ever again. * As a special note an award was created called the Luke Gull award which was presented to the trainee that exhibited outstanding performance during the training.

Done in 1994 on a shoestring budget and no crew. (Sorry about the technical shortcomings due to deterioration of tape and playback unit - 3/4 inch U-Matic) A solo effort by Clarence Michon myspace.com/cmichon

Category:

Film & Animation

Tags:

• Clarence
• Michon
• Director
• Producer
• Mushkegowuk
• Firefighting
• CAF
• Borden