Fires in Kawartha Lakes, Ont., under control, contained
1 fire now classified as being held, another under control: officials
Officials say that one of two active fires in Kawartha Lakes has been contained, while the second is now under control.
The Burnt River area fire is now classified as under control. The Kirkfield area fire has been contained, now classified as being held, and it's unlikely to spread under the current or forecasted weather conditions, the Ministry of Natural Resources said in the city's daily fire update.
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Hot and dry weather conditions resulted in four significant fires in the area in the past week, straining firefighting resources.
In the statement, senior fire officials thanked fire crews for their efforts.
"The scope of effort and dedication … has been immense," they said in the statement.
The total fire ban across Kawartha Lake is still in effect.
Before the Burnt River fire was classified as under control, Kawartha Lakes Mayor Doug Elmslie said the fires continue to need significant resources.
"Our fire service and partners have made tremendous progress under very challenging conditions, and I want to thank them for their dedicated efforts," Elmslie said in a statement Friday.
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"We all have a role to play in keeping our community safe," Elmslie said, urging residents to "please stay vigilant, follow the fire ban, and practice fire safety so we can build on the success achieved so far."
The city is continuing to urge people to avoid fire areas and said closures remain in effect on Prospect Road from 1304 north to 1375. County Road 49 between County Road 121 and Bury's Green reopened Friday at 12:30 p.m., the statement said.
If residents spot any smoke, the city says they're still being asked to call 705-324-2191 instead of 911.
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This article, written by Maya Fernandez, was originally published by CBC News on Aug. 15, 2025.