03/26/2015
While we've done our best to respond to questions, inquiries and concerns about the lodge, it's been a tough couple of weeks. After a bit of time to process, here is a break down for those who are curious:
On March 3rd, in the early evening, a fire broke out in the furnace room of the main lodge at Pine Falls Lodge and Resorts. When the fire was discovered, Fred Dunham did everything he could think of to prevent the spread, including turning off the propane supply to the rest of the property and powering through 9 fire extinguishers, but the fire was too big and too powerful. Meanwhile, Kaynan, 15 years old, ensured the animals were safe and clear from the danger.
Not shortly after, the fire burned so hot on the east side of the building, that Cabin 3, better known as Stormhold, caught fire as well. Fred, Kayn and a local OPP officer who arrived on scene did everything they could to extinguish the fire in cabin 3. Believing that the fire in cabin 3 was out, and once paramedics had arrived and cleared Fred and Kayn's minor burns, they were taken home by Sandra, waitress at the lodge and dear friend to the family.
Unfortunately, as the lodge stands in an 'unorganized township' there is no fire department who would respond. Unless the fire threatened the surrounding forest, MNR would not respond either. There were fire pumps on site - but they were in the lodge too close to the fire to reach, and useless with frozen lakes. The power went out during the fire as the power supply from the waterwheel routes through the main lodge. There was nothing more to be done but watch the lodge burn. Despite their best efforts, Fred and Kayn returned in the morning to find cabin 3 demolished as well. They believe the fire continued in the insulation of the exterior wall throughout the night.
The good news? Fred, Kayn, Diesel the dog, and Frenchy and Dougie the cats escaped with only minor injuries.
The bad news? We have lost a home, a business and a landmark that stands out in the hearts (and Harts) of so many.
The remaining cabins on the property still stand, however as a result of the shut down of the propane (and subsequently heat) and our limited access to the property while investigations took place, many water lines have burst and are now in need of repair. It will be a while before repairs are made and even longer before a final decision is made in regards to the property.
In the meantime, here is an album of the best and worst of our lodge photos...for the curious, for those who need to see to believe and for those who have been asking questions.
For anyone who would like to help Fred and Kayn out, or send their thoughts and wishes along, you can do so here:
https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/pine-falls-lodge-relief-fund-for-fred-and-kayn
Thank you to everyone who was so supportive during the aftermath. It's amazing to see your true friends in a crisis!
