Twenty homes were destroyed by the devastating Long Lake wildfire in Annapolis County that continues to rage on.
They were on West Dalhousie and Thorne Roads, but not all were homes.
In a press conference Thursday afternoon, Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland spoke directly to those affected.
“My heart breaks for what you are going through. I can’t even imagine the stress this devastation has put on you and your family. The heartbreak of seeing the place you filled with memories and comfort and safety being destroyed so suddenly is not something that I can wrap my mind around,” said Masland.
In a news release from the province, Premier Tim Houston said, residents will find comfort through this strong, tight-knit community.
“The saving grace is that there’s been no loss of life, more homes were saved than lost, and our crews are doing everything they can to prevent any further losses,” said Houston.
Another 11 outbuildings were lost or damaged on other properties in the area.
Annapolis County informed those affected and the municipality is establishing a navigator program to help property owners and evacuees access supports.
When it is safe, assessment of damage will continue for other homes, outbuildings and campers/trailers.
It is still too dangerous to allow property owners, insurance professionals or other services into the area.
“It was devastating news, and our hearts were broken for those who lost their homes in the West Dalhousie wildfire. These were not just structures, they were places filled with memories, comfort and meaning. We are here to support our residents, not only today, but in the days and months ahead. Our commitment to help those affected is unwavering, as we continue this journey together,” says Dianne LeBlanc, warden of Annapolis County.
Evacuations
The fire continues to burn out of control at 8,234 hectares, which is more than 82 square kilometres.
Five hundred and five civic addresses were evacuated, not all residential properties, 518 evacuees have registered with the Red Cross.
Emergency fund
An emergency financial support program is available for anyone displaced, from their home, based on the number of days evacuated.
– four to seven days – $500 per adult (18 and older), $200 per minor
– eight to 14 days – an additional $500 per adult (18 and older), an additional $200 per minor
– 15 or more days – an additional $250 per week per adult (18 and older), an addition $200 per minor.
Funding will be available until the evacuation order is lifted or at the end of wildfire season on October 15, whichever comes first.
The maximum amount of support is $3,000 per adult and $1,750 per minor. People who had to leave secondary homes such as cottages and camps do not qualify for funding.
Mental heath and well-being resources are also available for support.
Emergency mental healthcare is available at the toll-free numbers below or a hospital emergency department:
– provincial mental health and addictions crisis line: 1-888-429-8167 (available 24 hours a day)
– national suicide crisis helpline: 988 (24 hours)
– Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868 (24 hours)
– Hope for Wellness Helpline (Indigenous): 1-800-777-5888
More to come…
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