Barkway neighbours rescue homeowner from blaze early Sunday

BARKWAY — Neighbours helped a homeowner escape a major early morning fire Sunday in northeast Gravenhurst.

Gravenhurst firefighters were called to the structure fire early Aug. 6 after several reports from neighbours in the area.

At about 7:40 am, fire crews from stations 1, 2, and 3 responded to 1312 Barkway Rd., says a town release on behalf of the fire department.

They say first-arriving crews found the home “fully-involved.”

Due to the extent of the fire, additional water tankers were requested from the Bracebridge Fire Department as part of the Muskoka mutual aid agreement.

Firefighters on the scene had to battle through hot and humid conditions to extinguish the fire.

The cause is not considered to be suspicious, however further investigation has been initiated.

No injuries were reported and the single occupant was helped out of the home by a neighbour.

“Early detection was critical in the outcome of this incident,” said Todd Clapp, Deputy Fire Chief.

“Local residents were very helpful in making the homeowner aware of the situation and helped him exit the home with no injuries.”