KAWARTHA LAKES-As of Tuesday August 12, 2025, MNRF reports that there are three active fires in Kawartha Lakes. The Burnt River area fire (Haliburton 18) involves 27 hectares of forest and is not under control but has not grown in size.
A second fire began August 11, in the Kirkfield area (OFR001). It is 33.5 hectares and located just east of Prospect Road, and north of Eldon Station Road. Kawartha Lakes Fire and Rescue Service has asked for assistance from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. The Ministry is supporting the local municipality’s fire department by providing 3 Fire Ranger crews and air attack.
The Haliburton FMH are responding to the fire with three Fire Ranger crews and Air Attack. Five Kawartha Lakes Fire Stations are responding.
HAL 16 is near Head Lake. It is 4.6 hectares and considered under control.
The public are asked to avoid both fire areas to allow emergency vehicles and personnel to access the area.
With Fire resources fully engaged in these fires, resources are constrained. Any fire complaints for open air burning will be treated with zero tolerance.
Road Closures
- A road closure remains in effect on County Road 49 between County Road 121 and Bury’s Green until further notice.
- Prospect Rd is closed from south of 1304 Prospect Rd to north of 1375 Prospect Rd.
Public Safety
- No evacuation is necessary at this time.
- Residents and visitors are urged to avoid the two fire areas to allow crews to safely continue working.
- A total fire ban is in effect across the City of Kawartha Lakes.
With four significant fires in the past week and extremely dry conditions straining firefighting resources, residents are reminded:
- If you see smoke, report it immediately to Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue at 705-324-2191. There will be a zero tolerance for burning of any kind.
- Do not operate drones near active fire areas. This is illegal and poses serious risks to both aerial and ground crews.
With ever increasing weather-related emergencies, it is important for all households to have an emergency plan and a 72-hour emergency kit available. Take a moment to prepare your kit today: https://www.ontario.ca/page/be-prepared-emergency
Learn more about preparing for Forest Fires on the Ontario.ca website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/forest-fires-safety-information
