Ford Calls Wildfire Situation a 'Miracle' as No Deaths Reported

Ontario Premier Doug Ford described the absence of fatalities amidst 191 active wildfires across the province as a "miracle." The devastating blazes have already led to the evacuation of 10 communities, primarily in northern Ontario, as firefighters battle to contain the escalating situation.

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What’s a miracle [is] that no one’s lost their lives because of the incredible work of our front-line firefighters, OPP and paramedics.

During his first wildfire briefing in Toronto, Ford acknowledged the tireless efforts of front-line responders. "What’s a miracle [is] that no one’s lost their lives because of the incredible work of our front-line firefighters, OPP and paramedics," he stated. However, the situation remains critical, with 81 of the active fires currently classified as out of control and spreading rapidly.

The province has deployed over 150 crews, supported by helicopters and water bombers, to combat the fires. The government is also coordinating support services for evacuees, including transportation, accommodation, and food. Air purifiers and scrubbers are being provided to help affected communities remain in place where possible.

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No one has lost their lives. Thank God.

Several First Nations communities, including Armstrong, Lac La Croix, Whitesand, Gull Bay, and Lac des Mille Lacs, have been evacuated. A fast-moving fire has also caused damage to homes and buildings on Namaygoosisagagun First Nation. The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre has ranked Ontario as requiring external assistance, leading to the deployment of crews and aircraft from Alberta and other provinces. Despite these efforts, concerns have been raised about potential staffing issues within the fire program due to low pay and instability, potentially leaving less experienced individuals in leadership roles.

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Our government is working collaboratively across ministries and with a range of external partners to establish supports for people evacuating.