Lake George, N.S., wildfire now being held, evacuees can return home

The Lake George, N.S., wildfire is now being held and evacuees can return home, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

A social media post from DNR says the 288-hectare wildfire is now being held as of 8 p.m. Wednesday.

“That means the fire is not likely to move as long as conditions don’t change,” the post reads. “It not yet under control, it could still grow beyond the estimated 288 hectares. All evacuees can return home tomorrow.”

The fire prompted an evacuation order in the area on Sept. 29. So far, 353 properties have been evacuated.

No structures have been lost.

Available resources to fight the fire on Wednesday included:

• 39 B.C. firefighters
• 37 DNR firefighters
• 24 local firefighters
• four NWT planes
• five contracted helicopters
• one DNR helicopter
• 30 pieces of heavy equipment

Financial support

Nova Scotia launched financial support for wildfire evacuees on Wednesday. The maximum amount is $3,000 per adult and $1,750 per minor.

People who were forced to leave secondary homes such as cottages and camps are not eligible for the program.

Air quality

Environment Canada’s air quality statements for Annapolis and Kings counties remained in effect on Wednesday.

“People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” Environment Canada said.

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