Fires in Northwestern Ontario – Multiple Evacuations
1,500 Residents Airlifted To Safety
MNR and BC Staff unload a helicopter for the next flight to the fireline on Kenora 27. Photo courtesy OMNR by Mitch Miller.
The Cabinet Committee on Emergency Management convened today and ensured that firefighters and personnel on the ground have the resources needed to evacuate people to safety and extinguish the fires. The evacuation of residents of First Nations communities in Northwestern Ontario continues due to smoke and immediate threats posed by forest fires. Over the last few days, nearly 1,500 residents have been evacuated from communities because of nearby fires or heavy smoke.
Aircraft engineer performs maintenance on tail of CL-415 Waterbomber in Dryden. Photo courtesy OMNR by Mitch Miller
Emergency Management Ontario (EMO), the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), the Canadian Forces and Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada are working closely together with affected First Nations communities to ensure those in danger are safely evacuated. The government is also working with the communities who are accommodating those who have been evacuated.
- The Cabinet Committee on Emergency Management will continue to convene on a daily basis. The Province will continue to collaborate closely with affected community leaders and officials from other levels of government to ensure that all necessary resources are deployed to fight the fires and protect people and ensure their safe evacuation.
- EMO is coordinating with local officials in host communities and First Nations leaders to ensure the wellbeing of evacuees.
- MNR personnel continue to fight multiple fires with ground crews and water bombers and to coordinate the airlift in concert with the Canadian Forces.
QUICK FACTS
- There are over 100 fires currently burning in Northern Ontario.
- There are 2,000 firefighters and support staff currently involved in fire fighting efforts, including about 500 from out of province.
- There are 16 waterbombers and 85 other aircraft involved in the firefighting efforts.
- The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is now at full activation and coordinating provincial efforts.
MNR Fire Technician John Mash briefs BC Firefighters on their assignment for Kenora 27. Photo courtesy OMNR by Mitch Miller.
Fire Ranger Brendyn Eliuck spots a hotspot through the thick smoke. Photo courtesy OMNR by Brendyn Eliuk.
Blackened remains of Kenora District Fire 27. Photo courtesy OMNR by Brendyn Eliuk.
MNR FireRanger Les Prince nozzles hotspots along the edge of Kenora 27. Photo courtesy OMNR by Brendyn Eliuk.
