Construction workers safe after huddling in shipping container as wildfire raged around them

The superintendent of a construction crew that found themselves trapped by an out-of-control wildfire in northwestern Ontario has spoken out about the terrifying ordeal, stating that they are lucky to be alive. The 19-person crew, with all but one member from communities across Manitoba, had been working at a job site near Sandy Lake for a project with Sandy Lake First Nation.

Neal Gillespie, who works with Milestone Environmental Contracting Inc., described the harrowing experience of being surrounded by massive flames and smoke just meters away from where they were sheltering in a shipping container. “I thought we’re going to perish, actually,” Gillespie said.

The crew had initially noticed the fire about 40 kilometers away when they began their work day on Saturday morning. As the fire rapidly approached, they started to pack up their gear in case they needed to evacuate. Eventually, they were forced to abandon their equipment and seek shelter in the shipping container at a nearby work camp.

Gillespie recounted how the fire danced around them, causing some of the cargo containers to catch fire. Despite several attempts by helicopters to rescue them, the thick smoke made it impossible for the crews to be located. After hours of waiting, the crew made the decision to drive in a convoy to Sandy Lake First Nation, where they were eventually picked up by planes and flown back to Manitoba.

Sandy Lake First Nation Chief Delores Kakegamic described the crew as “really traumatized” upon their arrival at the First Nation. She also mentioned that an evacuation order had been issued for the community, with priority evacuees being flown out to various destinations.

Fortunately, all 19 workers were eventually accounted for and are safe. Canadian Armed Forces aircraft and personnel have been deployed to support emergency airlift evacuations in the area. The companies involved, Sigfusson Northern and Milestone Environmental Contracting Inc., have confirmed the safety of their crews and are providing counseling and wellness services to those affected.

Gillespie emphasized the importance of having emergency protocols in place and practicing evacuation procedures, stating that their preparedness likely saved their lives. The crew’s resilience and professionalism in the face of a rapidly changing situation have been commended by their employers.

As the wildfire continues to spread in northwestern Ontario, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. Evacuees in need of assistance can contact Manitoba 211 for support. The crews’ experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of wildfires, and the importance of being prepared for emergencies.