Town of Bracebridge provides an update on the freezing rain event
The District of Muskoka’s Significant Weather Event and Emergency Declaration also remains in effect.
Residents are still encouraged to stay indoors and off of roads, especially in areas where clean-up is still taking place. Tree branches continue to fall, and downed power lines continue to be a concern. Local road closures will be implemented as required. Please follow all on-site signage.
For more information on staying safe and emergency preparedness, visit bracebridge.ca/winterstorm.
Power Outages
Parts of Bracebridge continue to experience power outages. Lakeland Power and Hydro One continue to work to restore power to affected areas as soon as possible and have outside resources assisting. 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.
If you see a downed powerline, always assume it is live and deadly. Downed powerlines can electrify the ground around it, so you don’t have to touch the powerline to receive a deadly shock. Stay 10-metres back from the line. Call 9-1-1 and the appropriate power distribution company immediately.
Recreation Facilities
The Bracebridge Sportsplex has closed due to a power outage. All programming this evening has been cancelled.
- Wednesday, April 2: public swim at 7 p.m. and Lap Swim at 8 p.m.
The Kubota North Wellness Centre and walking track will close at 8 p.m. for the remainder of the week. Please check program status prior to visiting the facility at bracebridge.ca/programs.
The Muskoka Lumber Community Centre is open for residents to visit for respite from continued power outages and to charge devices.Water Filling Stations
The following municipal public water taps are available year-round for water bottle filling.
- Ecclestone Booster Station, 340 Ecclestone Drive, Bracebridge
- Kirby's Beach Water Treatment Plant, 1601 Beaumont Drive, Bracebridge
Gas Availability
As of this release, the following gas stations have fuel available. Refueling is anticipated at all stations this evening.
- Mobil, 270 Wellington Street
- Shell, 295 Wellington Street
- Esso, 440 Ecclestone Drive
As clean up from the weekend’s storm continues, residents are encouraged to assess their properties and work directly with their insurance providers for assistance with property damage and repairs. Please exercise caution when clearing debris and stay 10-metres away from any downed power lines.
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. Residents with private water systems are encouraged to disinfect, flush and test their water before consumption. For more information on food safety during a power outage, visit Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit.
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.
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.
Take the opportunity to check on neighbours and vulnerable members of the community, especially those who may be experiencing prolonged power outages. If residents are in danger, please call 9-1-1 immediately.
For more information on staying safe and emergency preparedness, visit bracebridge.ca/emergencypreparedness.
Additional Resources
- District Municipality of Muskoka road closures
- Provincial highways and road closures
- Carbon monoxide safety
- Winter storm safety
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About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country. With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.
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Contact Us
Town of Bracebridge
1000 Taylor Court
Bracebridge, ON P1L 1R6
Phone: (705) 645 5264