Lake George wildfire in Nova Scotia’s Kings County remains out of control

The Lake George, N.S., wildfire is estimated to be at 245 hectares Thursday.

Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) says the Lake George wildfire is still out of control as of Thursday morning.

The estimated size of the fire is now at 245 hectares based on more accurate measurement, the department said.

There have been no reports of damage to structures. Crews are facing another challenging day due to dry, windy conditions.

On Wednesday, Nova Scotia Emergency Management (EMO) issued an alert to evacuate more residents from Aylesford Road from (and including) Fox Mountain Campground to Civic 3847 Aylesford Rd., all civics on Spruce Drive, Birch Lane and Blue Lane, and all civics between 5 North River Rd. to 1493 North River Rd.

Evacuation Shelter

A 24/7 shelter with overnight accommodations is available for evacuees of the Lake George wildfire, at the Louis Millett Community Complex, 9489 Commercial St., New Minas.

All evacuees are asked to register at the emergency reception area inside the shelter or call 902-890-2042 for more information.

The Kings REMO Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC), located at 181 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., will transition to daytime operations. The ECC will now be activated daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and deactivated overnight.

The Kings REMO Public Hotline [phone]) will continue to operate during the ECC activation hours for residents seeking information or assistance related to the Lake George Wildfire impacts.

Resources

• 23 DNR and 20 local firefighters
• four NWT helicopters
• two Newfoundland planes
• two contracted helicopters
• 18 pieces of heavy equipment

Officials ‘confident’ fire was ‘human-caused’

In an update with the media on Tuesday, DNR director of fleet and forest protection, Jim Rudderham, said he believed the fire was started by a person, but officers were unable to determine the exact cause.

“Our conservation officers visited the area before activity picked up, but there was not enough evidence to determine the exact cause,” he said.

“It is quite frustrating for us when this happens, but it happens quite often that we can’t hold anyone to account. We are confident it was human-caused.”

Burn ban

A burn ban is in effect in Annapolis County. No open fires are allowed.

The fine for violating the burn ban is $25,000.

Burning is not permitted between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. in all areas of the province.

Air quality statement

A special air quality statement is in effect for Kings County and Lunenburg County.

Wildfire smoke may be reducing local air quality, the statement reads.

“Smoke from a wildfire near Lake George may lead to reduced air quality in its vicinity and directly downwind. Smoke conditions may vary locally as wind and fire behaviour changes,” the statement continues.

As smoke levels increase, residents are reminded that health risks increase. Environment Canada says to limit time outdoors, consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

“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,” the statement reads.

Residents are urged to keep their doors and windows shut.

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