9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ

Smudging

9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ's Fire Prevention Office (FPO) supports the sacred practice of smudging in collaboration with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.

FPO processes smudging requests using the Smudging Request Form, available here.

The FPO Smudging Request Form provides a structured process for requesting permission to conduct a smudging ceremony at 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ, ensuring the practice adheres to fire safety protocols. This form facilitates a safe and respectful environment for smudging ceremonies by ensuring compliance with 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ’s fire prevention protocols. By following these procedures, smudging can be conducted in a way that is both culturally significant and safe for the University environment. If you need further details or assistance regarding this form, feel free to ask us by email at fireprevention [at] mcgill.ca.

Purpose of the Form:

The form is intended to be filled out and submitted to 9IÖÆ×÷³§Ãâ·Ñ's Fire Prevention Office (FPO) at least 5 days prior to a planned smudging ceremony. This ensures that safety measures are in place to prevent disruptions such as false fire alarms, which could result in fines or interruptions during the ceremony.

Applicant Information: 

The form requires basic details from the individual performing the smudging ceremony, such as:

  • Name, contact information, and the organization or group associated with the event.
  • Specific details about the location (building and room number), the date, and the time of the event, as well as the expected number of attendees.

Agreement to Fire Safety Guidelines:

  • Traditional Medicines: The applicant confirms that only listed traditional medicines, such as ceremonial tobacco, sage, sweetgrass, and cedar, will be used in the smudging ceremony.
  • Fireproof Containers: The smudge must be carried out in a traditional, fireproof and heat-resistant container to minimize the risk of fire.
  • Safe Ash Disposal: Ashes must be kept in a fireproof container until fully extinguished and then disposed of safely outside the building.
  • Notification: The applicant agrees to notify individuals in the vicinity about the smudging ceremony at least 15 minutes before it starts and 48 hours in advance through posted notices. 
  • Fire Safety Equipment: The applicant must locate the nearest portable fire extinguisher for emergency use during the ceremony.

FPO Review and Fire Safety Measures:

  • FPO verifies whether smoke detectors will be affected by the smudging ceremony in the designated room. If necessary, they will arrange for the deactivation of smoke detectors to prevent false alarms.
  • FPO may require the event to be confined to a specific room to avoid smoke spreading into hallways or other spaces.
  • The Building Director and Security Services are informed once the smudging ceremony has been approved, ensuring that all relevant parties are aware of the event and can manage any potential concerns.
  • A Notice of Smudging Ceremony is posted to inform individuals in the building about the event. It includes the event details such as the date, time, and room number, along with the confirmation that the event has been approved by FPO.

Fire Prevention Measures:

  • Confirming smoke detectors’ status and deactivating them if necessary to prevent alarms.
  • Limiting the ceremony to a single room to minimize the risk of smoke spreading.
  • Ensuring fire extinguishing measures are in place.
Back to top