On Monday at approximately 5 p.m. Siksika Nation Chief and Council declared a State of Local Emergency.

Chief Ouray Crowfoot sent a video message to Nation members.

“Given the rise and the number of cases in Alberta and the presence of community transmission there is now a risk of infection to nation members,” said Crowfoot.

He explained that there are zero confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus on the First Nation.

“Chief and Council and all service areas are working closely together with health authorities to co-ordinate a response. We are a resilient people here at Siksika, we’ve had to overcome a lot through the years,” said Crowfoot.

Residents also heard from Stacy Doore, the director of emergency management.

He says he will be working with Siksika Health Services in order to give Nation members the best care and preventative measures to people.

The State of Local Emergency, “gives the authority for my self the director of emergency management, and the emergency management team to start preparing and planning when COVID-19 starts to come on to Siksika Nation,” he said.

Chief Crowfoot told members to stay safe, be prepared and use precautions. The First Nation will keep its members updated via social media.

“This is a rapidly changing virus and information is changing constantly as well. As we get new information in, we will share that information as well,” said Crowfoot.