Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency opens nominations for emergency preparedness awards

By Ian MacKay

Young people and organizations that have become well-versed in being prepared for emergencies can qualify for provincial awards.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency annually recognizes “achievements in public safety” through an awards program that honours “youth and organizations that have shown leadership in emergency preparedness,” an agency statement said.

Officials are accepting nominations until March 6 through the agency’s website, saskpublicsafety.ca.

“Given the difficult 2025 wildfire season, it is more important than ever that we recognize the efforts of those who help to safeguard our province,” said Marlo Pritchard, the agency president and provincial fire commissioner.

The President’s Award for Youth honours a high school student in the emergency services response training program who has shown commitment, skill, dedication and interest in helping others. The award can also go to a youth or child who has “demonstrated a special commitment to enhancing public safety or performing lifesaving measures,” the statement said.

The President’s Award for Prevention or Prevention Initiative honours a community, school or organization “that has taken great steps to improve preparedness” within its jurisdiction.

“Consideration would be given to the impact on neighbouring communities,” the statement noted.

The successful nominations will be announced at an awards ceremony held in the spring of 2026.

The agency, established in 2017, is a Crown corporation responsible for emergency management, fighting fires, fire safety, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry and the provincial disaster assistance program.