On October 7, 2025, at approximately 4:20 a.m., the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department responded to a report of a structure fire on Delbrooke Road in Lake of Bays.
Firefighters from Station 2 (Port Cunnington), Station 3 (Hillside), Station 4 (Baysville), and Station 1 (Huntsville) responded with 30 firefighters and nine apparatus. Algonquin Highlands Fire Services were requested to assist with fire suppression and overhaul. Also attending were the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Muskoka EMS, and Hydro One.
Upon arrival, crews found the house and a parked vehicle fully involved, with flames extending through the roof and fire spreading uphill along the forest floor toward two nearby homes. The homeowner and their pet dog safely evacuated without injury. The home was equipped with working smoke alarms, which activated and provided early warning.
Firefighters worked for approximately seven hours to fully extinguish the structure, vehicle, and wildland fires.
The investigation determined that the fire originated outside the home. However, due to two possible ignition sources and the extent of the damage, the exact cause could not be confirmed.
The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department reminds all residents that working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside all sleeping areas, and carbon monoxide alarms outside all sleeping areas if your home has any fuel-burning appliances or an attached garage. Test your alarms monthly, replace the batteries at least once a year, and replace the alarms completely if they are more than 10 years old.
Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so that everyone knows two ways out of every room and a safe meeting place outside. Early warning and a practiced plan are key to surviving a fire emergency.
For more information on fire prevention, smoke and carbon monoxide alarm requirements, or to schedule a home fire safety inspection, please contact the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department at 705-789-5201.
