The Town of Bracebridge has declared a Significant Weather Event due to the freezing rain and continued hazards it has caused. Residents are asked to stay home, stay off of roads and stay indoors. Due to fallen trees and branches, many roads are impassable, there are downed power lines and areas continue to experience power outages. This has led to hazardous conditions across Bracebridge. Local road closures will be implemented as required. Please follow all on-site signage.
Public Works crews are working on tree removal where it is safe to do so and continue to maintain the road and sidewalk network. Additional time may be required to achieve standard maintenance levels during this time.
Barrie's Mayor Talked To Us About The Ice Storm
As weather condition continue, please stay safe.
- Postpone all non-essential travel;
- Have a 72-hour emergency kit prepared to support you and your family for at least three days. Include batteries, important medications, snacks, water and other life-saving items;
- Ensure outside vents for all fuel-burning appliances are clear of ice and debris;
- Stay indoors and exercise extreme caution in forested areas as trees and branches continue to break due to the weight of the ice. Keep a close watch on children and pets; and
- Download and register for the Voyent Alert app to receive location-based notifications to your home phone, mobile device or email.
The District of Muskoka has also declared a significant weather event for all District roads.
Flood warning remains in effect
The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Flood Warning remains in effect until Friday, April 4. This applies to all watersheds in Bracebridge-Minden-Parry Sound, including the Muskoka River Watershed and Black River.
Recreation Facilities
The Bracebridge Sportsplex and Muskoka Lumber Community Centre are open to provide residents with respite from the cold. Both facilities are operating on backup generator power. All scheduled programming in the pool and Muskoka Lumber Arena are cancelled today. The Kubota North Wellness Centre, walking track and Proline Rentals Fieldhouse remain open. Please check program status at bracebridge.ca/programs prior to visiting.
For more information on staying safe and emergency preparedness, visit bracebridge.ca/winterstorm.
Power Outages
Parts of Bracebridge are experiencing power outages. Lakeland Power and Hydro One continue to work to restore power to affected areas as soon as possible, however, with several municipalities dealing with the same issue, be prepared for prolonged outages. For updates on the outages, visit outages.lakelandpower.on.ca and the Hydro One Storm Centre.
Health and Safety
During and after a power outage it is important to consider the safety of your food and water to protect against any food or waterborne illnesses. For more information on food safety during a power outage, visit Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit.
Generator Safety
Generators, when used properly, can provide an alternative power source. However, they must be used safely and properly.
- Never operate a generator inside your home or garage. It can cause a build-up of fatal fumes, including carbon monoxide. Fans or open windows and doors do not provide enough fresh air to keep you safe;
- Never connect portable generators to electrical appliances or wiring components that have been affected/damaged by water;
- If extension cords must be used, only use grounded cords that are rated for proper use;
- Gasoline and its vapors are extremely flammable. Allow the generator engine to cool for at least two minutes before refueling and always use fresh gasoline; and
- Ensure that generators are placed away from the house and that snow and ice are cleared from around the unit to ensure proper ventilation.
Stay Safe Near Waterways
As snow melts and water levels change, residents are reminded to exercise extreme caution around rivers, lakes, and drainage courses.
- No ice is safe ice. Warmer temperatures and precipitation will weaken ice conditions;
- Stay away from fast-moving water and unstable banks, as they can collapse without warning;
- Keep children and pets away from all water bodies and ice-covered surfaces, as ice can quickly become unsafe;
- Exercise extreme caution when using forest access, gravel or secondary roads as they may be prone to soft areas;
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Even shallow water can be hazardous and unpredictable; and
- Be prepared. Have a 72-hour kit prepared with all the items you and your family need to sustain themselves for at least three days.
Be a Good Neighbour
Take the opportunity to check on neighbours and vulnerable members of the community, especially those who may be be experiencing prolonged power outages. If residents are in danger, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
