More who were forced from their homes from the Long Lake wildfire in Annapolis County, will be able to return.

The province says that on Tuesday, re-entry can begin for 17 primary residences:

– 8 and 28 Spectacle Lake Rd.
– 122 Medicraft Lane
– from 5606 to 6160 West Dalhousie Rd.

There will be a checkpoint at Thorne and West Dalhousie Roads, with access from Highway 19 between 9-11 a.m. with a valid piece of identification.

“We are so grateful for the hard work being done by everyone involved in the Long Lake wildfires response. It’s reassuring that more residents can return to their homes on Tuesday,” said Kim Masland, Minister of Emergency Management. “For those still waiting to return home, we know this has been a long road for you – your patience and resiliency is unmatched. Please know we are working as hard as we can to bring you home safely.”

The province says the decision to allow people to go back home is based on the current fire behavior, air quality and road access, which is assessed by the Department of Natural Resources.

The fire is still not under control but is still being held as of September 8.

Power will be restored once you are back home, and waste collection will begin September 22. Residents are advised to:

– drive with caution as fire crews may still be working in the area
– be aware of air quality advisories and limit exposure if sensitive to smoke
– check the home for damage before re-entering
– residents should remain prepared to evacuate should fire behaviour change.

A state of local emergency remains, and the following areas remain evacuated:

– all of Heartland Road
– Medicraft Lane, except for the residence listed above
– Thorne Road, except for the two addresses on last week’s re-entry list.