Update on the Kirkland Lake forest fire

Kirkland Lake Community Control Group
News Release

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The Kirkland Lake Community Control Group os working with the Ministry of Natural Resources will be allowing a limited return of residents to the Goldthorpe Road and Goodfish Road areas over the next 24 hours.

The fire, dubbed Kirkland Lake 8 is approximately three kilometres north of the town and began Sunday May 20, 2012. It continues to be listed as ‘not under control’ although it has remained the same size at 2635hectares.

If there is no further threatening fire behaviour, Goldthorpe Road will be open at 6:00 p.m. for residents only. Police will continue to man the roadblock at the road limiting access to residents and only as far as the residential area.

The Ministry of Natural Resources will evaluate the fire suppression progress in the Goodfish Road area overnight May 26, 2012. Goodfish Road residents with property south of 911 or Fire #1045 may possibly be able to return to their residence effective 10:00 a.m. Sunday May 27, 2012. Goodfish Road would then be open as far as Fire #1045 to residents only. Roadblocks will remain in the area.

In both locations, if the residents are allowed to return, it will be announced on CJKL radio at 6:00 p.m. May 26, 2012 for Goldthorpe Road and 10:00 a.m. May 27, 2012 for Goodfish Road to 911/Fire #1045.

Residents are advised, when they return to their homes, their access is their property only. The Implementation Order put in place by the Ministry of Natural Resources on May 21, 2012 remains in effect. The order prohibits the use and occupation, travel on and use of any and all forest access roads and trails on Crown lands in the Townships of Teck, Morrisette and Bernhardt, also known as the incorporated Municipality of the Town of Kirkland Lake; is prohibited unless authorized by a travel permit as issued by the Kirkland District of the MNR.

The Implementation Order also restricts travel and use of Crown land in the eastern portions of Grenfell and Maisonville Township.

As well, heavy equipment will continue to work in the area and the values protection will remain on the properties.

The fire is not under control at this time. There is no evacuation order at this time but residents are asked to be prepared. Preparation includes fill your vehicle with fuel, packing three days clothing, all medication, First-aid Kit, food and bottled water, important papers, personal items and pets.

Information is also available to Kirkland Lake residents at:

Day: 705-567-9365

Night: 705-567-9364

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