Forest fires brought under control in Kawartha Lakes

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: After days of smoke-filled skies and the constant hum of aircraft overhead, the forest fires in Kawartha Lakes were declared under control, on Friday, August 15th.

The week had been marked by hot, dry weather, which pushed firefighting resources to their limits and created volatile conditions in the forests and fields around the municipality. At the peak of the response, four significant fires were burning simultaneously, including a stubborn blaze near Burnt River which drew widespread concern.

Residents reported seeing water bombers circling low over tree lines, scooping up lake water before dropping it onto hotspots, where ground crews were working. Fire trucks and tankers moved steadily along rural roads, while firefighters cut fire breaks and doused smouldering brush, in an effort to stop the flames from spreading.

In a statement, senior fire officials acknowledged just how much effort went into containing the fires. “The scope of effort and dedication … has been immense,” they said, pointing to the cooperation of fire crews, aerial support, and neighbouring departments who provided assistance.

Mayor Doug Elmslie also praised the coordinated effort, while urging residents not to let their guard down. “Our fire service and partners have made tremendous progress, under very challenging conditions, and I want to thank them for their dedicated efforts,” he said Friday. “We all have a role to play in keeping our community safe. Please stay vigilant, follow the fire ban, and practice fire safety, so we can build on the success achieved so far.”

Although officials confirmed no evacuations were necessary, residents and visitors have been asked to steer clear of the affected areas, so crews can safely finish their work. A total fire ban remains in effect across Kawartha Lakes, with zero tolerance for burning of any kind. Fire officials reminded residents to report any signs of smoke immediately, to Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue, at 705-324-2191, and stressed, flying drones near active fire zones is both illegal and dangerous, putting aerial and ground crews at risk.

The municipality also took the opportunity to provide an update on storm debris collection, following April’s ice storm. Crews have been systematically picking up brush, piled at the curb, working from south to north through both urban and rural areas. All urban zones have been completed and most rural ones covered, though residents can check an interactive map, on the municipal website, for details. Anyone whose property was missed can file a request, using the online ‘Report It’ form.

Officials cautioned, these fires are another reminder of the importance of emergency preparedness, as severe weather events become more common. Every household is encouraged to have a 72-hour emergency kit and a plan in place, should disaster strike. More information on preparing for emergencies and staying safe during forest fire season is available through the Ontario government’s website, at www.ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency.