A massive fire broke out at a farm just west of Simcoe, killing 20,000 hogs and destroying a four-acre building. The fire was noticed by farm staff at around 6:30 am, and firefighters responded quickly to battle the blaze.
The Norfolk County Deputy Fire Chief described the farm as one of the largest pig operations in the province, with the building housing a vast number of animals. The entire structure is a total loss, and officials estimate that at least 20,000 pigs perished in the fire.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries to firefighters or farm staff. The fire operation involved 14 fire trucks and over 50 firefighters, with the Deputy Chief stating that it would be a long and challenging process to bring the fire under control.
As of Tuesday morning, the fire was not yet fully under control, but firefighters were making progress. The property owner is insured, and while the cause of the fire is still unknown, it is not considered suspicious.
The Ontario Fire Marshal has been notified, and officials are working to determine the cause of the fire. In the meantime, Highway 3 was closed due to the fire, and residents were advised to take precautions due to poor air quality and reduced visibility.
Residents were urged to keep doors and windows closed and stay indoors to minimize exposure to smoke and poor air quality. The fire was having a significant impact on the local community, with combined effects of heat and smoke causing hazardous conditions.
