Crews battle forest fire in Burnt River

Kawartha Lakes — Since Friday August 9, 2025, Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service (KLFRS) has been working to contain a significant forest fire in the Burnt River area. As of Sunday afternoon, roughly 27 hectares remain actively burning.

Fire crews from three KLFRS stations are on scene, supported by the Trent Lakes Fire Service and multiple Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) crews from the Haliburton detachment. Additional resources, including North Bay crews, are being deployed to assist. 

This afternoon, aerial water support, including water bombers, is scheduled to continue, targeting the most active fire zones. Tanker trucks are drawing water from local lakes to supplement firefighting efforts on the ground. 

The fire is burning in a heavily wooded area, where ice storm damage has left hazardous terrain that makes hose deployment especially challenging. Safety remains the highest priority for all crews on scene. 

Public Safety and Road Closures

• No evacuation is necessary at this time. Conditions are being monitored closely and will be updated on August 11, 2025.
• Residents and visitors are urged to avoid the Burnt River area. A road closure remains in effect on County Road 49 between County Road 121 and Bury’s Green until further notice. 

The City of Kawartha Lakes extends its sincere thanks to neighbouring fire services in Trent Lakes and the Ministry of Natural Resources for their critical support during this challenging operation. 

With three significant fires in the past week and extremely dry conditions straining firefighting resources, please note: 

• A total fire ban is in effect across the City of Kawartha Lakes.
• If you see smoke, report it immediately to Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue at 705-324-2191.
• Do not operate drones near active fire areas. This is illegal and poses serious risks to both aerial and ground crews. 

Stay Informed

• Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies
• Call 705-324-2191 to report a burning complaint
• OPP (outside Lindsay/Ops): 1-888-310-1122
• Website: www.kawarthalakes.ca
• Social: Facebook, @CityofKawarthaLakes X (Twitter) @kawarthalakes
• Radio: 91.9 FM
• Road closures: www.municipal511.ca
• Sign up for municipal alerts via Jump Inbox: www.kawarthalakes.ca/subscribe

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