In Northern Manitoba, members of the Cree bands were often hired on as fire rangers. They travelled by canoe, posting fire prevention signs and putting out small fires where they could.

In the following 1919 report to the Chief Fire Ranger at Norway House, a Cree fire ranger states that he is performing his tasks to the best of his ability. He adds that his canoe is in very poor shape, and he needs a new canoe in order to continue his duties.

Photo Credits:
Glenbow Museum [Cree Canoe, Lac des Isles NA-1700-5]
National Archives of Canada [Cree letter: Office of the Chief Fire Ranger, Norway House, 1919]]