Children evacuated due to Long Lake wildfire ‘anxious’ as school year approaches

As the wildfire in Annapolis County rages on, the start of the school year looks very different for some children in the community. Jonathan Gillies, a father of three, including a 13-year-old son, an 8-year-old son, and an 11-year-old daughter, is among the evacuees forced out of their home due to the expanding fire zone.

Gillies shared that his daughter found the evacuation experience to be traumatic, and his children are feeling anxious about returning to school. Many of the kids who lost their homes attend the same school, ride the same bus, and play on the same playground as Gillies’ children, making the situation even more challenging for them.

The school has made accommodations for transportation for those affected by the evacuation, rerouting school buses to ease the process. Gillies noted that some children are exhibiting signs of stress through hyperactive behavior.

Despite the challenges, Gillies mentioned that his children and others in the community are finding ways to cope. They have been expressing their gratitude to firefighters by creating signs and waving at them from a safe distance. Conversations among evacuees are now shifting towards long-term solutions as the wildfire could continue for another month.

While Gillies and his family have found temporary housing in an apartment, not all evacuated families are as fortunate. Some are staying in motel rooms, student residences, or with friends and family, leading to increased anxiety and uncertainty.

The fire in the Long Lake area has seen some growth but favorable weather conditions have aided firefighting efforts. Firefighters have been working on creating firebreaks to prevent further spread towards communities, with the aim of getting evacuees back home as soon as possible.

Although the province has received some rain and cooler temperatures are expected, an air quality advisory remains in effect for Annapolis County. The wildfire has already destroyed twenty homes and several structures over the past three weeks.

The community continues to come together to support one another during this challenging time, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety and well-being of all those affected by the wildfire in Annapolis County.