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by Fire Chief Cuddy Understanding Wildfire Response: An Interview with Fire Chief Cuddy Wildfires are an increasing concern for many rural and cottage communities, making it essential for residents to understand how emergency responses are coordinated. The MPOA Board recently spoke with Fire Chief Cuddy to clarify how municipal, provincial, and federal systems work together during a wildfire, and what residents can expect in an emergency. Who Declares an Emergency? The author

by Casey Cuddy, Fire Chief, CEMC Addington Highlands (Kaladar / Barrie & Denbigh) Fire Departments 72 Edward St., Flinton firechief@addingtonhighlands.ca 613-336-9780 What goes into the decision on implementing or lifting a fire ban? Although the inputs are fairly complex, it ultimately comes down to assessing risk based on several factors. The Fire Weather Indices (FWI) are an indicator of fire behavior on any given day. The FWI is weather-based, beginning with winter sn

In North Frontenac, short-term rentals have become a rapidly expanding industry, operating out of residential properties along waterfronts and other areas not zoned for commercial use. Despite this growth, the sector largely remains off the municipality’s radar, except when neighbours file complaints about guest behaviour. This lack of visibility stems from the absence of regulatory oversight; the industry has expanded more quickly than the Township has been able to respond.

By Ellen Reid The Federation of Ontario Cottagers' Association (FOCA) speaks to, and on behalf of, the 250,000 waterfront property owners who live at the water in Ontario, either seasonally or year-round. Their members are 525 lake & road associations in rural communities across the province, including the MPOA. The FOCA (Federation of Ontario Associations) Spring Seminar 2026 highlights strategies for managing waterfront properties and fostering community collaboration. Key

What's Happening at Bon Echo Park for the 2026 season.

Septic re-inspections focus

Every year, when we ask MPOA members what our top three priorities should be, water safety is always near or at the top—and rightfully so. Enjoying the water is why we’re all here, and creating a safe environment for everyone is something we all care deeply about.

Ever found yourself wondering what you’d do if a fire broke out near your cottage — or worse, right on your property? This past fall, we had a close call. A grass and pine needle fire quickly got out of control. Thankfully, one sharp-eyed MPOA member spotted smoke from across the bay and jumped into action. With the help of our community Facebook group, folks figured out the exact location of the fire and called 911. One member even sped over by boat and found the owner alre

Last updated March, 2025 How would you handle getting someone in need to medical assistance across the water to meet the EMT? Do you...

At Mazinaw, on May 21, 2022 a Derecho wind event quickly came through our area, packing high winds which were strong enough to level parts of our forest around the lake and causing havoc for many properties.

Floods often bring floating debris that can create navigational hazards.