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Jamie Smith, tbnewswatch.com
Dozens of families are out of their homes after a flood on Fort William First Nation caused a state of emergency Monday.
Nearly 42 families are staying at a Thunder Bay hotel as the community begins Phase 1 clean up.
Chief Georjann Morriseau said making sure everyone is safe and that the emergency declaration will continue until all homes are inspected and assessed for damage.
“Until our members are at home safely and out of harm’s way,” she said. “They don’t want to be displaced any longer, we’re trying to work as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
Crews are inspecting everything from electrical issues to mould assessments in damaged homes, a majority of which are near Squaw Bay. Damaged roads have been reopened in the community along with all businesses.
Morriseau said she’s thankful that all members of the community have been patient as work continues. As for costs, they won’t be known but for now Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada have been providing resources.
Fort William First Nation has been working with Emergency Management Ontario to develop a response plan.
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