Firefighters in Nova Scotia mounted the largest effort in provincial history to protect homes from the Annapolis County wildfire, saving dozens from destruction.
Firefighter Reflects on Devastating Blaze
A Nova Scotia firefighter leading efforts against the Long Lake wildfire says he is stunned by how many homes survived the flames. Dave Rockwood, the provincial fire and ground search and rescue co-ordinator, described conditions as “hell in the woods,” with flames reaching 200 feet.
Leadership Amid Crisis
Rockwood, who had only been promoted days before lightning ignited the fire on August 13, coordinated the largest structural protection effort in Nova Scotia’s history. Over three weeks, he and volunteer crews worked around the clock to shield homes in Annapolis County.
Strategy to Save Homes
Working alongside the Bridgetown fire chief, Rockwood mobilized equipment from departments across the province. Crews cleared potential fuel sources from properties, shut windows, and set up fire sprinklers where possible. Nearly 50 fire apparatuses were positioned across a 10-kilometre stretch to build a protective “humidity bubble” around vulnerable homes.
Community and Provincial Response
Volunteer firefighters and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) personnel combined forces in a historic joint effort. Water was transported from nearby valleys to refill ponds, while crews deployed a Western Canada technique to rehydrate dry fuel, steering the fire away from structures.
Results of the Fight
Of 88 homes directly in the path of the wildfire, only three were lost, according to Rockwood. Province-wide, the fire has consumed 20 homes and about a dozen additional structures. Covering nearly 85 square kilometres, the blaze remains out of control, but cooler fall-like conditions have begun to aid suppression efforts.
Ongoing Impact on Residents
Some residents have returned home, while others remain displaced without a clear timeline for return. Rockwood acknowledged the emotional toll on both firefighters and families. “It’s difficult at times to choke things back. It’s been a lot of emotions for three weeks now,” he said.
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