Storm cleanup continues in Orillia area

The mass cleanup effort from last weekend's ice storm continues by the thousands of crews with boots on the ground, particularly in the Orillia area.

The mass cleanup effort continues by the thousands of crews with boots on the ground through Simcoe Muskoka, particularly in the Orillia area, one of the most impacted areas by last weekend’s ice storm.

Day six of the clean up for Hydro One workers started early in Ramara Township. Crews were given a free breakfast and lunch bags from Casino Rama.

“The crews are fantastic, we’ve got more crews coming in today, but ultimately it’s about our customers who have had a horrible week,” said David Lebeter, president of Hydro One.

It was also day six without power and six straight days of frustration for many.

Power poles that have been laying along roads in Ramara Township are still there in many spots. Authorities are urging residents to stay clear.

“It’s a disaster. It’s a disaster everywhere,” said Roger Hotoyan, a Ramara Township resident.

In Rama First Nation, nearly 25 per cent of residents were still without power on Friday.

Leaders hope to have them back online by the end of the day.

“Sump pumps had no power,” said Ted Williams, Rama First Nation chief. “Sump pumps weren’t operating so some basements were getting flooded.”

The sound of chainsaws also continued to blast across the City of Orillia on Friday, where some people remained in the dark.

Don McIsaac, Orillia’s mayor, says the city has waived garbage collection fees, and trips to the land fill are free to residents.

“We have nine chipping trucks in town making rounds,” said McIsaac.

For those using generators to keep their lights on, Oro-Medonte Fire & Emergency Services (OMFES) wants to remind them about some important fire safety tips.