Preparing for Wildfire

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 authority to declare an emergency depends on the scale of the situation. Under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA):

• Local emergencies are declared by the head of council, following municipal emergency preparedness by-laws.

• Provincial emergencies are declared by the Premier.

  
  

Who Issues Evacuation Alerts or Orders?

Evacuation decisions are made by the Incident Command (IC) under the Incident Management System. This process involves close coordination with:

• The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) or other on-site emergency services

• The Emergency Operations Center (EOC), if activated

Depending on the situation, officials determine whether residents should evacuate or shelter in place.

How Will Residents Be Alerted?

Residents of North Frontenac and Addington Highlands will be notified through multiple channels:

• Official municipal websites

• Social media platforms (Facebook, X, etc.)

• Alert Ready emergency notifications (similar to tornado or Amber Alerts)

• Door-to-door notifications by police or fire services, if necessary

If a wildfire poses a direct risk, affected residents will be informed as quickly as possible.

Where Should You Look for Updates?

For reliable, up-to-date information, residents should monitor:

• Official municipal websites for North Frontenac and Addington Highlands

• Municipal Facebook pages and North Frontenac’s X account

• The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) wildfire map (note: this does not include fires handled solely by local fire departments)

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Who Determines Evacuation Routes?

Evacuation routes are determined by Incident Command in coordination with the OPP and, if active, the EOC. These decisions depend on the nature and location of the emergency.

Municipal public works teams assist by setting up:

• Road signs

• Barricades

• Directional guidance for residents

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What Happens If Water Bombers Use Local Lakes?

In the event that water bombers are deployed:

• Aircraft will use the safest and most efficient nearby water source

• Decisions are based on lake size, accessibility, and proximity to the fire

Because wildfire response is highly time-sensitive:

• The Air Attack Officer will not notify lake associations in advance

• Public notifications are unlikely during rapid deployment

Important safety notes for boaters:

• Move close to shore if aircraft are operating nearby

• Expect multiple planes using the same flight path

• Be aware that planes often operate in tandem

Additionally, it is illegal to fly drones within 9 km of a wildfire.

What About Traffic from Bon Echo Provincial Park?

Concerns about mass evacuations from Bon Echo Provincial Park—particularly along Highway 41—are understandable. However, past experiences, such as large-scale exits during severe weather events, have not resulted in major issues.

While traffic volumes may increase, most vehicles will be traveling in the same direction, which helps reduce congestion complications.

Will There Be Evacuation Centres?

Yes. Both municipalities have designated emergency shelters:

Addington Highlands:

• Community Hall in Flinton

• Hall in Denbigh

North Frontenac:

• Clarendon Miller Hall in Plevna (primary shelter)

• Additional halls may be activated as needed

Residents will be notified about which centres are open depending on the situation. The Community Control Group may also be activated to support emergency operations.

What About Water-Access-Only Cottages?

At this time, there are no specific evacuation plans unique to water-access-only properties. However, in the event of a wildfire, residents are expected to return to their vehicles using the boats they arrived in, allowing time for evacuation.

How Are Outdated Updates Managed?

Municipal staff aim to keep information accurate and current:

• Older posts are removed when updates are issued (especially in Addington Highlands)

• Residents are encouraged to refresh their browsers to see the latest information

It’s also important to rely on official sources, as outdated or incorrect information may still circulate through shares or reposts.

Final Thoughts from Fire Chief Cuddy

While wildfire risks exist, our region benefits from a mixed forest landscape, which typically reduces the likelihood of extreme wildfire behavior seen in places like Fort McMurray, Slave Lake, or Jasper.

Residents are encouraged to take proactive steps:

• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit

• Be ready to shelter in place for up to three days

• Clear leaves, pine needles, and other debris around homes and outbuildings

• Stay alert when driving and pull over for emergency vehicles

Preparedness and awareness go a long way in keeping communities safe.

Staying informed and ready can make all the difference in an emergency. Make sure you know where to get updates, have a plan in place, and take steps now to reduce fire risks around your property.