Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, earlier this week the Department of Municipal and Community Services recognized exceptional NWT firefighters through the annual Fire Service Merit Awards.
Collectively, the Fort Providence Fire Department received a merit award in recognition of the advancements they've made in achieving organizational excellence and safety compliance. I'd like to extend a congratulations to them.
Mr. Speaker, this is no small thing. I'm very proud of what the Fort Providence Fire Department has accomplished, especially after a recent reorganization. As with many local services, communities come together to get the job done.
New Fire Chief Andy Carpenter and along with Deputy Fire Chief Cameron Sapp lead a fresh crew of volunteers, and I know that a great deal of training and planning went into their reorganization. The team had to work through several levels of training before they could qualify to officially fight fires in the community, and I can assure you, Mr. Speaker, that the whole community is grateful for these volunteers' service.
While we're on the subject, I also want to leave Members and listeners with a few thoughts on fire safety. With winter setting in, it's more common for residents to burn wood at home. Extra attention must be paid to proper maintenance and care, including cleaning up chimneys and wood stoves and keeping an eye on all burning fires. Remember the ABCs: always be careful. Mahsi, Mr. Speaker.