A relentless Christmas Day storm posed quite a challenge for anyone who had to venture out on to city streets Sunday — especially local first responders.
"Yesterday was a day that will long be burned in our memories," notes a series of Tweets Monday evening from the Orillia Fire Department.
"But while the snow was a frustration for us, many saw it as an opportunity to demonstrate their goodwill and caring for their neighbours," the fire department official tweeted.
In one case, after an ambulance and a fire truck got stuck on snow-choked Muskoka Road going to a medical assistance call, a citizen pushed the stretcher down the street through the snow.
"Other neighbours with shovels, a plow and skid steer helped to free the ambulance and the fire truck," noted the fire department, who said several first-responders witnessed citizens plowing local roads and helping to free stuck cars.
"All three emergency services worked continuously without a moment of rest through much of the day," noted the fire department official.
"Our firefighters topped (the) day off spending many hours fighting a house fire" on Walker Avenue.
Orillia Fire Chief Michael Clark told OrilliaMatters Monday afternoon the townhouse unit was "a complete loss." He said the two adjoining homes sustained minor smoke damage. He estimates the fire caused about $400,000 in damages.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
When firefighters were able to get the fire extinguished, their trucks were stuck amid the snow and ice. Sand had to be brought in to help get the trucks enough traction to, finally, leave the scene, topping a harrowing day for local first responders.
"But what stands out is how we came together, helping each for no more payment than a smile and a thank you," noted the fire department's concluding tweet.
