-UPDATE #6- OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION - Gull Bay First Nation Evacuation Order; Updated Highway Closures
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-UPDATE #6- OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION
Gull Bay First Nation Evacuation Order; Updated Highway Closures
(THUNDER BAY, ON) - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to assist the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) with evacuation efforts in several northwestern Ontario communities as ongoing wildfires continue to threaten affected areas.
The OPP is currently assisting the MNR with an evacuation order of Gull Bay First Nation, which was previously under a self-evacuation. Individuals living in areas under mandatory evacuation orders have been asked to leave their residence immediately and seek safety away from active fires. Other communities are being monitored, and residents are urged to stay informed and be prepared to act quickly should further evacuation orders or advisories be issued. Additional information will be issued as it becomes available.
The closure of Highway 527 at Gull Bay First Nation has been extended to the Highway 811 junction. Highway 811 is also closed due to ongoing wildfire activity, apart from local traffic evacuating the area.
The OPP, in collaboration with emergency response partners, will notify the public when conditions allow for the safe return to communities affected by the wildfires. Until such notification is issued, members of the public are asked to avoid evacuated areas to support ongoing emergency operations and protect public safety.
Unauthorized entry into evacuated areas may place lives at risk, including those of first responders. Failure to comply with road closure signage may result in charges, including a fine of $110 and three demerit points.
The OPP North West Region Headquarters has deployed Aviation Services, the Emergency Response Team, the Provincial Liaison Team and Operational Support teams to support the MNR and communities affected by the ongoing wildfires. Working closely with community and policing partners, officers are assisting with evacuations, enforcing road closures and helping to ensure public safety in impacted areas.
For their safety and the safety of emergency responders, members of the public and media are strongly urged to:
- Stay away from affected areas and refrain from attending wildfire scenes to take photos or videos
- Remain calm and follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions issued by local authorities
- Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas
- Monitor official sources for the latest information and evacuation updates
- Remain away from evacuated areas until authorities have advised it is safe to return
- Help keep roadways clear so emergency personnel can carry out their work safely and effectively
- If evacuating, bring essential medications, identification, important documents, mobile devices and chargers, and any items required to support the needs of family members and pets
OFFICIAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION
Media and the public seeking information on the fire suppression and management efforts should visit ontario.ca/page/forest-fires . For information on the coordinated emergency response, contact the affected municipalities.