14:30EDT May 27 2012 – Timmins Fire Update

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mayor of timminsTHUNDER BAY – The fire situation in Timmins is looking better. Mayor Laughan stated this afternoon, “We continue to make progress fighting this fire. Today’s cooler temp combined with calmer winds and the rain forecast is great news and will aid in the suppression efforts”. The Mayor continued, “There are no significant property losses to report. Only a few sheds and a truck have been identified as values compromised.”

The fire is still 30 to 35 km away from the City of Timmins core and based on mapping techniques, fire is at 39,518 ha and not the 41,000 ha previously reported.

The Mayor’s comments came during a press briefing on Sunday afternoon where Laughton reported that “The City Emergency Planning Team met again this morning to assess developments and update strategy.”

The City is asking owners of private aircraft to stay away from the fire zone.

In other positive news, the Mayor reports, Lakeshore Gold reports that they will be back in full production beginning this evening”.

“We do not anticipate any new evacuation orders. The City of Timmins welcome/registration centre operated by the Red Cross will be decommissioned today. Anyone requiring assistance can call the Timmins Office of the Canadian Red Cross at 705-267-4900 or visit their office at 60 Wilson Ave”.

The Emergency Area Order remains in effect, along with an outdoor water ban. Laughton is asking that “Car washes and car dealers to consider water conservation measures until further notice”.

“I want to emphasize what I said yesterday with respect to updates and information accuracy. This situation is fast moving and so information changes at the drop of a hat. We will continue providing ‘real time’ accurate updates as quickly as we can. I want to thank everyone involved in this situation and want to thank the many businesses and residents who have contributed, through donations, water, gator aid, food, fly repellent, etc. We are all grateful for your generosity and kindness in a time of need.”

Timmins 9 is currently 39518 hectares in size. The fire did cross Hwy. 144 near the Cache Campground area and McKeown Creek recreation area on Kenogamissi Lake.
The fire has not crossed Hwy. 101.

Values protection efforts and fireline construction continue with resources on and approximately 200 structures have been protected from the fire. Fire crews continue to arrive on this fire daily to assist with efforts. An MNR Incident Management Team is also on-site. The safety of the public and our crews is our top priority. The City of Timmins remains in a state of emergency.

The City of Timmins Forest Fire Information Line: 705-360-8720
Timmins Fire Information Officer: 705 235-1372


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James Murray
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