Nova Scotia Wildfire Update

USPA NEWS - Statement From Province of Nova Scotia

"The Department of Natural Resources confirms that one of its helicopters crashed in shallow water at about 4:24 p.m. today, August 15, while working on the Long Lake wildfires.

The pilot was conscious and talking with firefighters who quickly reached the aircraft. By 6 p.m. he was rescued from his aircraft and taken for medical assessment.

Out of respect for the pilot’s privacy, the department is not releasing his name.

Transport Canada investigates all aircraft incidents and has been informed. The department will cooperate fully."

Meanwhile, in other fire related news, RCMP release: Cumberland County District RCMP is conducting an investigation into multiple suspicious fires in collaboration with the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. On August 13, at approximately 4:40 p.m., Cumberland County District RCMP responded to assist with traffic control and resident evacuation warnings as fire crews and DNR resources worked to contain fires along two stretches of road near Oxford. Firefighters attempted to control multiple grass fires along Hwy. 204 near Birchwood and along Jungle Rd. south of Oxford Station. Evidence collected near one of the fires suggests that the fires were intentionally set. Cumberland County District RCMP are leading the investigation, with support from the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Cumberland County are seeking witnesses or dashcam footage from the following locations: Highway 321 near Oxford Junction between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on August 13; Highway 204 near Birchwood between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on August 13; and Jungle Road from Highway 321 to Thomson Road between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. on August 13. To report anonymously, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED AS LONG LAKE FIRE EXPANDS - The Long Lake wildfire in Annapolis County has nearly doubled in size overnight, growing from 406 hectares on Friday to approximately 807 hectares (~2000 acres) on Saturday. The fire, caused by a lightning strike earlier this week, remains out-of-control. The Municipality of the County of Annapolis has declared a seven-day state of local emergency, which may be renewed or lifted depending on conditions. The Municipality asserts that these measures will enable enhanced protection of residents and property, while also safeguarding the public against potential price gouging on essential goods and services. Prices on essentials cannot increase while the state of emergency is in effect. On the ground, firefighting crews from Nova Scotia DNR and local fire departments are collaborating with a crew from PEI DNR. Air assets, including four planes from the Northwest Territories, are providing assistance.

ANNAPOLIS COUNTY WILDFIRE UPDATE - SUNDAY, August 17th, 9:15 AM: The Long Lake wildfire has expanded and remains uncontained. Additional evacuations may be necessary. The fire is currently estimated at 1101 hectares (~2720 acres). A wind shift has caused the fire to move back towards West Dalhousie Road. Homes in this area have been equipped with various fire protection measures, including sprinkler systems. Nova Scotia DNR and local firefighters are collaborating with crews from New Brunswick, PEI, and Ontario to combat the fire. Aircraft from the Northwest Territories are expected to provide aerial support today.