Naloxone is a lifesaving medication that can temporarily reverse an opioid poisoning by restoring normal breathing in someone whose breathing has slowed or stopped. Anyone can carry naloxone, and kits are available free of charge at most pharmacies and through many community organizations that work closely with people who use drugs.

Naloxone works quickly, usually within two to three minutes, and can be given as a nasal spray or injection. Naloxone is generally safe for people of all ages and will not harm someone who is not experiencing an opioid poisoning. However, 911 should always be called when naloxone is given because opioids can remain in the body longer than naloxone. Naloxone does not reverse the effects of benzodiazepines, medetomidine or other non-opioid drugs.

If someone appears to be experiencing a drug poisoning, call 911 immediately. The Good Samaritan Drug Overdose Act offers some legal protection to people who provide emergency help during a drug poisoning.

The health unit reminds the public that there is no way to know for certain what substances may be present in the unregulated drug supply. To reduce the risk of drug poisoning, people who use drugs should use with someone they trust, start with a smaller amount, arrange for someone to check on them, consider using the National Overdose Response Service at 1-888-688-NORS (6677), and always carry naloxone.

For more information about naloxone and opioid poisonings, visit the health unit’s website at smdhu.org/opioids.

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Over a period of 10 months, Fire Prevention Officers worked with the property owner to address unsafe combustible storage inside the building’s basement fuel‑fired service room. Despite repeated inspections, written direction, and ongoing attempts to achieve voluntary compliance, the hazardous conditions remained unresolved.

Because the stored combustibles created a significant fire risk and could have endangered residents if a fire occurred in the service room, the Fire Department proceeded with charges. The matter was heard before the Ontario Court of Justice, where the landlord was found guilty of failing to comply with an inspection order and was fined $10,000.

“Combustible storage in a fuel‑fired service room is a serious hazard,” said Steve Markham, Public Education and Fire Prevention Officer. “We always try to work collaboratively with property owners, but when compliance isn’t achieved and resident safety is at risk, enforcement becomes necessary.”

The Huntsville Fire Department reminds landlords and property managers that they are legally responsible for maintaining fire‑safe conditions within their buildings, including keeping service rooms clear of combustibles and ensuring full compliance with the Ontario Fire Code.

Residents with fire safety concerns in rental properties are encouraged to contact the Huntsville Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division.

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Prepare for the ultimate e-bike adventure through Gravenhurst, where history, food, and Muskoka charm come together!

Offered every Thursday, choose your start time — 10:00am or 1:30pm — and meet your local guide at the Fairfield Hotel, where you’ll be set up on a pedal-assist e-bike and given a quick safety briefing before hitting the road. Ride through charming historic neighbourhoods and quiet back roads, taking in panoramic views and the stunning Lake Muskoka waterfront along the way.

Along the route, stop at The Bakery for their world-famous apple fritter, soak in the waterfront scenery at Gull Lake Park, and roll through a scenic stretch of the Leo Heritage Trail. You’ll also pass the iconic Steamship Dock, home to Muskoka’s legendary steamship heritage.

Following your tour, you’ll receive a voucher for general admission to the Muskoka Discovery Centre — redeemable at your own pace, any time during operating hours, where exhibits, restored vessels, and the rich maritime history of the region await.

Book now for an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and local discovery! Pedal-assist e-bikes make the ride a breeze for most fitness levels.

You must be 16 years of age and able to safely ride a standard bike to join this tour.

Book your Adventure

Price: $107 All prices are in Canadian dollars and include taxes and booking fees.
Date and Time: Thursdays, 10:00am and 1:30pm
Level of Activity: Easy
Duration and Distance: 1.5 hours approx round trip E-bike tour + Muskoka Discovery Centre at your own pace.
Minimum age: 16 years old +

The Great Canadian Wilderness TICO Registration #50027320 3-1 Taylor Road, Bracebridge, ON P1L 1W8 (705) 646-0490

The Great Canadian Wilderness does not offer travel cancellation or out-of-province medical insurance. We recommend purchasing insurance independently through your preferred provider.

Package Includes:

Muskoka Guided E-Bike Tour: Bakery to Boardwalk:

Discover the best of Gravenhurst on a relaxed, 90-minute guided e-bike tour that goes beyond the main street. Offered every Thursday at 10:00am and 1:30pm, this tour starts at the Fairfield Hotel and takes you through charming historic neighbourhoods, past panoramic lookouts, and along the stunning Lake Muskoka waterfront — with a stop at The Bakery for a fresh, famous apple fritter (one per person).

Take in the iconic Steamship Dock, explore a section of the Leo Heritage Trail, and soak up the scenery that makes Gravenhurst one of Muskoka’s most beloved towns. The pedal-assist e-bikes are perfect for all ability levels, so everyone can enjoy the ride. Tour includes a premium e-bike, helmet, certified guide, and one fresh apple fritter per person.

Muskoka Discovery Centre: General Admission:

After completing your e-bike tour, you’ll receive a voucher for general admission to the Muskoka Discovery Centre — yours to use at your own pace, any time throughout the summer of 2026 during operating hours.

Step into the heart of Muskoka at the Muskoka Discovery Centre, where history, culture, and nature come together in a series of award-winning exhibits. From the ancient Indigenous heritage of Misko-Aki: Confluence of Cultures to the inspiring story of sustainability with Wanda III: Steam to Green, there’s something for everyone. Explore the vast Muskoka Watershed in Watershed Wonders, and marvel at the timeless beauty of classic boats in the Grace & Speed Boathouse.

The post Sign Up Now For This Tour Gravenhurst By E-Bike Package appeared first on Muskoka411.

Working alongside the Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response, the Red Cross, municipalities, Airbnb, 211Ontario, and animal welfare partners across Ontario, the Ontario SPCA is providing a range of services to support evacuated families and their animals, including:

• Pet-friendly housing: Working with Airbnb to help displaced families find temporary accommodations where they can stay with their pets.
• 211Ontario support: Connecting people affected by the wildfires with pet-related resources.
• Emergency boarding: Adoptable animals from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society Northwest Animal Centre in Thunder Bay have been moved south to provide temporary shelter at the centre for displaced animals while families get settled.
• Emergency pet food and supplies: Approximately 75,000 lbs of emergency dog food is on its way to Northern Ontario to replenish supplies that have already been distributed to feed pets impacted by the wildfires. Families are also receiving crates, leashes, collars, harnesses, bowls, and other essential pet supplies.
• Veterinary care: Offering wildfire telehealth support for pets, as well as free in-person veterinary services for animals impacted by the wildfires, including health checks, vaccinations, and spay/neuter services when needed.
• Additional supports: Working with partners to identify temporary RV parking for families travelling with animals and coordinating support for livestock if required.

Anyone affected by the wildfires who needs support with their pets is encouraged to call 1-888-ONT-SPCA (668-7722) and follow the prompts to be connected with available services.

“The situation continues to evolve every day, and we know more families may need support in the days and weeks ahead,” says Shawna Beaulieu, Regional Director, Northwestern Ontario, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “When families arrive at evacuation centres, we want to make sure they have the pet food, supplies, veterinary care, and other support they need to stay together while they focus on getting through this emergency.”

To learn more or donate to the Ontario SPCA’s Emergency Response Fund, visit ontariospca.ca/emergency-response

The post OSPCA Expands Support For Pets Displaced By Northern Ontario Wildfires appeared first on Muskoka411.

Since the launch of We See You, donors have helped transform care at GBGH by bringing MRI and Mammography services to the hospital, investing in surgical technology, medical equipment and innovative tools that are already strengthening the patient experience. To date, approximately $14-million has already been invested in healthcare at GBGH, and an additional $10-million will be designated and ready for the proposed mental health building, once provincial approvals are received. 

The new stretch goal will support additional priorities identified by the hospital, including a major modernization of the hospital pharmacy, laboratory renovations, expanded investment in critical equipment, and future opportunities that will bring additional health care services closer to home.

“This milestone belongs to our entire community,” said Perry Esler, interim CEO, GBGH Foundation. “Reaching $20-million ahead of schedule is an incredible expression of trust in our hospital and belief in the importance of local health care. Because of our donors, patients are already experiencing the impact of this campaign every day. The momentum we’ve created together gives us a unique opportunity to do even more for our community, while remaining ready to move forward on mental health as soon as approvals are received.”

Mental health continues to be a cornerstone of the We See You campaign. The Foundation remains committed to reserving $10-million for the community share of an acute mental health program, ensuring the hospital is prepared to act when provincial approvals are granted. 

For donor Nancy Martin, supporting the campaign has been about investing in care that will benefit generations to come.

“When I first heard about the We See You campaign, I believed in what we could accomplish together,” said Martin. “Seeing the MRI and Mammography programs come to fruition is just so amazing. I know how many people will benefit from having these services at GBGH. It is a great reminder that every gift becomes something real for patients and their families. I’m grateful to be part of this community that steps up when needed, and I’m excited to see how much more we can achieve together.”

Since the campaign’s public launch, thousands of donors, volunteers, community organizations, businesses, municipalities, and health-care supporters have contributed to its success. Together, they have helped strengthen care for body, mind, and spirit while ensuring more patients have access to excellent care close to home. The campaign’s vision remains unchanged: transforming health care at GBGH and preparing the hospital for the future.

“One of the most inspiring aspects of this campaign has been seeing people from every corner of our region come together around a shared belief that local health care matters,” said Matthew Lawson, president & CEO, GBGH. “The campaign has already made a tremendous difference. Together, we’re building on that success so that patients, families, and staff can continue to benefit from world-class care, right here at GBGH.”

The We See You campaign will continue through 2029, with a total goal of $35-million and an ongoing focus on strengthening health care today while preparing for the opportunities of tomorrow. Information on the campaign can be found at WeSeeYouGBGH.ca.

The post Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation Surpasses $20M Fundraising Goal Years Ahead Of Schedule appeared first on Muskoka411.

• Small, recreational, open-air fires are permitted between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m; and
• No daytime burning is permitted.

When having an open-air fire, please practice safety first.

• Ensure your fire is at least six metres (20 feet) from any adjacent properties, structures, trees or anything that can burn and is a maximum of 61cm (2 feet) wide;
• Never leave a fire unattended;
• Do not use aerosols or accelerants on a fire, such as gasoline. These substances are unpredictable, can explode and ignite surrounding areas;
• Only dry wood can be burned. Do not burn any grass, yard waste or green wood;
• There must be an immediately accessible and adequate supply of water and tools available to extinguish a fire. Make sure the fire is out completely before leaving the site;
• Keep your distance. Children, pets and adults should stay a safe distance away; and
• In the event of an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.

In Bracebridge, recreational open-air fires are permitted between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m. in all four of Bracebridge’s fire zones in accordance with the Burning Control By-Law until October 31. Daytime burning and slash pile burning is not permitted during this timeframe.

The Muskoka-wide fire danger rating system is in effect from April 1 to October 31 and is monitored by the Muskoka Association of Fire Chiefs, in consultation with Ministry of Natural Resources.

For more information on the current fire danger rating, visit [/bracebridge.ca/firedangerrating]bracebridge.ca/firedangerrating or call 1-877-847-1577.

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For over 30 years, the Orillia Waterfront Festival has transformed the Port of Orillia into a lakeside celebration. This year attendees can expect live music, more than 100 vendors and exhibitors, the fan‑favourite Cardboard Boat Race, food trucks, artisan displays, and more. The Waterfront Festival runs from Friday, August 7, until Sunday, August 9, and a full schedule of events can be found at https://www.orillia.com/waterfront-festival.

The Dock Diving Dog contest takes place at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, and at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 9. Participants should arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of time and are asked to pre-register online. The link to register is https://business.orillia.com/events/details/dock-diving-dogs-2026-1866?calendarMonth=2026-08-01

The contest will take place at Couchiching Park in the area of the the Federal Dock. All breeds and sizes of dogs are welcome, provided that they are non-aggressive and responsive to commands. There is no fee to participate but all participants must sign a waiver. Dogs must be accompanied by at least one adult per dog and must be leashed at all times other than while jumping. “Stoop and scoop” rules will be enforced and dogs must remain under their handlers control.

Awards will be given for categories such as “Biggest Splash,” “Most Enthusiastic Jumper,” and “Best Rookie Performance.”

The public is invited to attend this adorable event. Spectators can line the dock, cheer, and be part of the fun. Learn more at https://www.orillia.com/events/details/dock-diving-dogs-orillia-waterfront-festival-2025-1759?calendarMonth=2025-08-01.

The Orillia District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) is a non-profit organization made up of over 500 member businesses serving the City of Orillia, Severn Township, Ramara Township, Oro-Medonte Township and Chippewas of Rama First Nation. The ODCC is committed to providing an integrated voice for a prosperous business community that fosters local economic development and sustainable growth.

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For owner Ken King, the decision to become a Business Cares Strategic Partner was inspired by a deeply personal experience. During a hospital stay at GBGH in the fall of 2025, King found himself seeing the hospital from a completely different perspective — not as a business owner, but as a patient receiving care.

During his stay, he spent time walking throughout the hospital and was struck by the donor recognition wall in the main lobby. Seeing the names of so many local families, organizations, and business leaders who had invested in the future of healthcare inspired him to do the same.

“When you see how many people have stepped up to support our hospital, it really makes an impression,” says Ken King, owner, Harvey’s / Swiss Chalet Midland. “I found myself thinking, if they can do it, I can do it too. The care I received gave me a new appreciation for what GBGH means to our community, and becoming a Business Cares partner felt like a meaningful way to give back.”

Today, Harvey’s / Swiss Chalet Midland continues to reflect the community values that have guided the business for decades. The restaurant hires locally, fosters a family-oriented culture, and invests in developing future leaders, including General Manager Meghan Stanek, a local resident who has grown with the business and represents its next generation of leadership.

As a Business Cares Strategic Partner, Harvey’s / Swiss Chalet Midland joins the We See You campaign, a community-driven effort to strengthen care at GBGH through investments in equipment, technology, and programs that help ensure patients and families receive the care they need when it matters most.

“Ken’s commitment comes from firsthand experience,” says Robyn Blanchet, key relationships officer, GBGH Foundation. “After experiencing care at GBGH himself, he was inspired not only by the team who cared for him, but by the generosity of the community members and business owners who have chosen to invest in local healthcare. We’re incredibly grateful that he decided to join them and help ensure future patients receive the same excellent care.”

Through Business Cares, Harvey’s / Swiss Chalet Midland joins a growing network of businesses who recognize that investing in health care is an investment in people. Together, these partners are helping ensure GBGH can continue delivering excellent, compassionate care for families across North Simcoe for generations to come.

To learn more about the We See You campaign, visit: http://weseeyougbgh.ca/ or to learn more about Business Cares, visit: https://gbghf.ca/get-involved/business-cares/ 

The post Harvey’s / Swiss Chalet Midland Steps Up To Support Georgian Bay General Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.

“If music be the food of love, play on!”

Bard on the Bay has become a staple of summer experiences in Collingwood, and this year marks 10 years since Theatre Georgian Bay first tread the boards on stage at the Shipyards Amphitheatre. Opening July 23 and running until August 3, the cast of Twelfth Night is set to deliver a truly celebratory production filled with music, mistaken identity, and hilarious hijinks to feed the creative souls of audience members of all ages! Whether you are a seasoned theatregoer or new to Shakespeare, all are welcome at Bard on the Bay.

Theatre Georgian Bay was founded in 2016 by twelve passionate artists from across the region who were inspired to create classical and Canadian theatre. Since then, the company has gone on to produce annual works by Shakespeare, a Canadian musical premiere, new works from established and emerging Canadian artists, cabaret events and more. The current collective is made up of seven dedicated professional arts workers, including Theatre Collingwood’s Associate Producer Anne Raciunas.

“Theatre Georgian Bay burst onto the arts scene with a production of Twelfth Night in the summer of 2016” said Raciunas.  “Our 10th Anniversary felt like the perfect time to mount a reimagined production that celebrates the continued success of Bard on the Bay and acknowledges how far we’ve come.  Much like the characters in Twelfth Night, everything that we do for our community, we do in the name of love!”

Inspired by the passion of the company’s inaugural production staged a decade ago, this summer’s production of Twelfth Night is a completely reimagined experience set in Muskoka in the 1930s. Shipwreck survivor Viola finds herself far from home and disguises herself as a man named Cesario so that she can enter into the service of the local Duke Orsino.  The Duke longs to woo the Countess Olivia, and dispatches the disguised Viola to deliver love letters to the Countess.  The plan backfires in classic Shakespearean fashion as Olivia falls for Cesario, whose heart now belongs to Orsino.  With musical clowns, misguided paramours, and plenty of fools added into the mix, Twelfth Night is a legendary crowd pleaser. This production of Twelfth Night is a 90 minute, family-friendly event that is suitable for all ages.

Bard on the Bay has become a greatly anticipated summer event that hosts hundreds of patrons from across Grey-Bruce, Simcoe County, and the GTA every summer. Most recent Bard on the Bay productions include The Winter’s Tale, Much Ado About Nothing, The Tempest, and Romeo & Juliet. Paired with the breathtaking backdrop of Georgian Bay, the continued success of Bard on the Bay is also tied to the company’s mission to create theatrical experiences for the community that are both financially and contextually accessible. Theatre Georgian Bay presents these classic works with an emphasis on the text and staged to be enjoyed by patrons regardless of their Shakespeare experience. To help alleviate any financial stress that may stand between individuals and culture, Theatre Georgian Bay operates Bard on the Bay under a Pay-What-You-Will admission by donation system (with a suggested donation of $25).

Twelfth Night runs from July 23 to August 3 at the Shipyards Amphitheatre in Collingwood.  There are 12 performances to choose from, and audience members are encouraged to bring their own cushions, chairs, or even a picnic!  Anyone seeking additional performance information can visit www.theatregeorgianbay.ca or contact the Theatre Georgian Bay collective directly by emailing theatregeorgianbay@gmail.com

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