Proximate causes of unsafe drinking water access in Ontario, Canada: First Nations versus non-First Nations communities

This study provides the first stand-alone systematic quantitative comparison of boil water advisories (BWAs) across First Nations and non-First Nations communities in Ontario, Canada, between 2017 and 2022. Using compiled BWA records, combined with community-level socioeconomic and geographic data, we applied statistical and regression analyses to examine patterns in BWA frequency and duration. Results show that First Nations communities experience significantly more frequent and longer BWAs, particularly in small and very small communities, while remoteness further increases BWA duration. Our findings reveal persistent structural inequities in drinking water access and underscore the need for systemic policy responses beyond current initiatives.