Crews battle ongoing Burnt River forest fire in Kawartha Lakes

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Fire crews are continuing to battle a stubborn forest fire, in the Burnt River area, located between Bobcaygeon and Kinmount, as approximately 27 hectares are still burning earlier this week. The Burnt River fire is one of four wildfires which were active in Central Ontario over the weekend.

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) reported, seven ground crews remain on scene, working to contain the blaze. On Sunday, water bombers were deployed as part of the firefighting efforts, and an aerial attack remains on standby for use, if needed.

Mayor Doug Elmslie said, crews have been making progress, but warned, hot, dry weather and the potential for high winds could change conditions quickly. He urged the public to avoid the Burnt River area, to allow emergency vehicles and personnel to operate safely. A road closure remains in effect, on County Road 49 between County Road 121 and Bury’s Green, until further notice.

Mayor Elmslie noted, fallen brush from the spring ice storm is fuelling the fire and complicating containment. The heavily wooded terrain and limited accessibility to roads means, the municipality is relying heavily on the MNR and neighbouring fire departments for assistance.

While water bombers had not yet been deployed again, as of earlier this week, local fire departments have been shuttling water to the area, to assist ground crews.

With three significant fires reported in Kawartha Lakes, in the past week, and firefighting resources stretched thin, a total fire ban remains in place across the municipality. Residents are reminded to report any smoke to Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue, at 705-324-2191, and to avoid operating drones near active fire areas, as it is illegal as well as dangerous to aerial and ground crews.

Officials are also urging residents to be prepared for emergencies, with every household having a plan and a 72-hour emergency kit on hand. More information is available, at ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.

According to the Ontario Forest Fires webpage, the Burnt River fire, identified as HAL019, remains active and not yet under control.