The Honourable Bernard Davis, Minister of Justice and Public Safety, is congratulating the Town of Churchill Falls for receiving an Emergency Management Exemplary Service Award in recognition of its efforts during a wildfire threat last summer.
This award for exceptional service and achievement is given to individuals or groups that distinguish themselves through exemplary actions and contributions in the field of emergency management.
In June 2024, Churchill Falls demonstrated remarkable resilience and efficiency in the face of a significant wildfire threat. Primarily inhabited by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro employees and their families, the Town effectively used its emergency plan to successfully evacuate approximately 750 people in under two hours and to allow for continuous power delivery to the residents across the province.
Through its emergency plan, Churchill Falls coordinated with other agencies, provided innovative solutions, including remote monitoring and leveraging Hydro Québec’s resources, and helped to maintain operational stability.
In addition, the Churchill Falls community exhibited exceptional solidarity by assisting evacuees from another wildfire threat in Labrador City, offering essential services and support to thousands of residents.
A partnership between Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Governments, the Emergency Management Exemplary Service Awards recognize exceptional service and achievement in emergency management, spanning five categories: Resilient Communities, Search and Rescue Volunteers, Search and Rescue Employees, Youth, and Outstanding Contribution to Emergency Management.
Quotes
“I congratulate the Town of Churchill Falls for receiving this prestigious emergency management award. This achievement showcases the residents of Churchill Falls and their remarkable capacity to rise to challenge and readiness to support others in times of need. I commend the Town for their tireless efforts to protect and support their community, and I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who played a role in making a difference.”
Honourable Bernard Davis
Minister of Justice and Public Safety
“The people of Churchill Falls exemplified the fortitude and giving spirit of Labrador this past summer, both in how they rose to the challenge of the wildfires that threatened their community, and in how they opened their doors for their neighbours in Labrador West. I applaud the recognition the community of Churchill Falls so rightly deserves with this award, and thank them for being a vital part of the larger Labrador community.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs
“As the MHA for Lake Melville, I was pleased to witness the presentation of this award to the Churchill Falls team, in Ottawa recently. To see their emergency planning and implementation in the face of adversity, recognized at the national level, was an honour. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this success.”
Perry Trimper
MHA for Lake Melville and Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier
“As wildfires rapidly approached their town, the community of Churchill Falls showed true strength and resilience. With support from colleagues across Hydro and the Provincial Government, they pulled together and pushed boundaries to ensure the safety of every employee and resident as well as the security of our provincial electricity system. They showed us the true power of community and I’m so pleased to see them receive this well-deserved recognition.”
Jennifer Williams
President and CEO, Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro
-30-
Learn more
Follow us on X @GovNL, @JPS_GovNL
Follow us on Bluesky
Like us on Facebook