Red Lake fire forces halt to mine construction

Pure Gold Mining has temporarily suspended construction activity at its Red Lake Mine project due to an active forest fire that's forced the evacuation of the northwestern Ontario town.

In an Aug. 11 news release, the Vancouver mine builder reports that the fire is active in the area south of town and appear to be moving northeast and away from the company's property, which is located just southwest of the community.

The company said all staff and contractors are safely accounted for, out of harm’s way, with no damage to infrastructure or equipment on site.

Crews from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry are working on containment, including both ground and aerial suppression with five water bombers.

The Municipality of Red Lake is advising all residents to evacuate the municipality.

Pure Gold said it is maintaining a security force at site while the fire is being contained and is closely monitoring the situation.

The company's Red Lake Mine (formerly the Madsen Mine) is on schedule to begin production late year.