Fire Safety

🔥 Fire Emergency at the Lake: Are You Prepared?

Updated: April 2025

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 already battling the flames with a hose — together they kept it from spreading until the fire department arrived. No buildings were lost. It could’ve been a lot worse.

But this was a wake-up call.

🔧 Emergency Gear: Are You Fire-Pump Ready?

When the fire broke out, people started scrambling to find someone with a fire pump. The trouble? It was late fall. Most cottages were shut for the season. During an emergency is the worst time to start searching for gear.

Some members have asked the MPOA to help create a list of who owns fire pumps. Despite efforts, no volunteers came forward. If you can, invest in your own fire pump, or consider going in on one with your neighbours. In one bay, a group of cottages did just that — they even trained each other on how to use the pump and ensured the hose could reach every property.

Just remember: owning a pump isn’t enough. You’ve got to test and maintain it, and make sure everyone knows where to find it and how it works.

[More about fire pumps →]

✅ Is Your Cottage Fire Smart?

Here’s your seasonal checklist to help you stay safe and ready:

• Check and replace the batteries in your smoke and CO detectors. It’s the law in Ontario to have working alarms on every storey and outside all sleeping areas — this includes bunkies!

• Keep fire extinguishers handy. Know how to use them — and make sure your guests do too. A recent lightning strike at a property needed 5 to 7 extinguishers to stop it from spreading.

• Have a fire escape plan, especially if kids are around (many don’t wake up to smoke alarms!). Practice it and have a meeting spot.

• Unplug appliances like toasters when not in use — some can still pose a risk even when off.

• Clean out outlets and fixtures during your seasonal opening — mice and bugs love nesting in these.

• Clear debris from under your cottage and roofline. Rake up dead leaves and pine needles and move them deep into the woods.

• Groom your lot for wildfire protection: Trim trees back 10 metres from the cottage. Remove flammable cedars and junipers near buildings.

• Keep access routes open for emergency vehicles — at least 12 feet wide and high for fire trucks.
  

🔥 Outdoor Fires & Fire Pits

Before lighting an outdoor fire:

• Have a large bucket of water ready before striking a match.

• Keep the fire small and attended at all times.

• Choose your fire pit location wisely: Avoid roots and overhanging trees. Line with rocks or gravel.

• Avoid burning on windy days. If you must, don’t throw on light debris like leaves that can blow away.

And always check with your local fire department or township (Addington Highlands & North Frontenac) for fire bans. The number to call: 613-336-1851.

🚒 Fire Pumps: What to Know Before You Buy

Fire pumps are becoming more popular on the lake. Here’s what to think about:

• Portability

• Ease of use (especially for those without a lot of upper body strength — some models are one-pull start!)

• Hose length — enough to cover your entire property and possibly a neighbour’s

• Storage and organization — keep all parts together and visible

• Monthly testing and regular training

• Ask your local fire department for a demonstration at your property!

A reminder from Fire Chief Casey Cuddy: “I understand people wanting to fight the fire themselves — but safety comes first.”

🚨 Make Sure the Fire Dept Can Reach You

If you ever need to call the fire department:

• Make sure there's a place to dock and unload equipment quickly.

• Step aside once they arrive and let the professionals do their job.

• Keep your laneway clear and trimmed. Overhanging branches can stop fire trucks in their tracks.
  

🎆 Fireworks? Think Again

Please be responsible with fireworks:

• Set them off only in wide-open areas

• Never light them near cottages or wooded areas

• Always have a bucket of water on hand

• Remember: Your neighbours do notice — and they do talk
  

🌲 Wildfires: Be Ready Before One Starts

Chief Cuddy mentioned that in the event of a wildfire — like one caused by a lightning strike — there would likely be time to evacuate. Still, it’s smart to be ready:

• Know your exit routes. Do you have more than one way out?

• Keep a chainsaw handy in case downed trees block your path.

• Make a “Go Bag” and store it somewhere accessible.
  

What’s in a “Go Bag”?

• Insurance papers and ID

• Car keys, wallet

• Water, snacks

• Medications

• Phone charger & backup battery

• First-aid kit

• Flashlight

• Fire blanket

• Toiletries

• Extra clothes

• Emergency plan

• Pet food and supplies

• Cash in small bills

• Whistle, notepad, pen

More tips here: FireSmart Ontario

🧰 Resources Worth Bookmarking

• FOCA FireSmart Manual – Fire prevention planning & property assessment

• Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs Tips – Seasonal fire safety

• Cottage Fire Safety from the Ontario Gov’t

• Your local fire department: 613-336-2286

Your cottage is a place of rest and joy — let’s keep it safe for everyone. Whether it’s a spark from the fire pit or a lightning strike in the woods, being prepared is the best way to protect your family, your neighbours, and the landscape we all love.

Stay safe,The MPOA Team