ORILLIA, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A shelter-in-place advisory has been issued for residents and businesses near Maple Valley Road and Telford Line at 9:19 p.m. on November 13th, 2025,  as Orillia OPP respond to an active incident involving an armed individual. Update: As of 1:15 a.m on November 14th, 2025, the Shelter in Place order has been lifted. Officers are currently on scene dealing with an incident involving an armed individual; he is considered to be armed and dangerous. What Police Are Advising If you are inside a home or building:  Stay there, lock all doors and windows, and remain away from exterior walls. If you are outside:  Seek shelter immediately in a secure location. If you are driving:  Continue directly to your destination without stopping or entering the impacted area. An increased police presence is expected as the investigation continues. Please share this notice widely and stay posted for updates as they become available. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Belleville, ON – November 12, 2025, 9:42 a.m. Belleville police and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 68-year-old Robert Billyard , who has been reported missing from the Belleville area. He is also a family member of our family, my father's cousin, to be exact. Robert was last seen on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, around 12:30 p.m. , walking northbound on Pinnacle Street . He is described as being 6 feet tall (182 cm), approximately 189 lbs (86 kg) , with a scruffy grey beard , blue eyes , and glasses . He may be wearing a black toque , black jacket , and blue jeans , and could be carrying two green grocery bags . Authorities and family members are deeply concerned for his well-being and are asking anyone who may have seen him or has information about his whereabouts to contact the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)  at 1-888-310-1122 , quoting Reference #E251529077 . If you live in the Belleville area, please share this information, check your property or security cameras, and help spread awareness. He is also known to frequent Trenton. Every share counts when it comes to bringing Robert home safely. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 If you would like to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Belleville Police have successfully concluded a fraud investigation that began with a lost purse in the downtown area. On November 11th at approximately 8:13 p.m. , officers received a report from a woman who had misplaced her purse earlier in the evening. Shortly after, she noticed unauthorized transactions  appearing on her bank cards, including one at a local hotel . Officers quickly attended the hotel, reviewed surveillance footage , and were able to identify a suspect . Their timely and thorough investigation led to the arrest of Dwayne Redcliffe, 59, of Belleville , who is currently of no fixed address . Redcliffe has been charged with fraud under $5,000 . He was released on an Undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court in December. This investigation highlights the strong police work and attention to detail that continue to keep Belleville residents safe and ensure that offenders are held accountable. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 If you would like to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Location: Quinte and Quinte West, Ontario Date and time issued: November 10th, 2025 | 2:32 p.m This Remembrance Day, communities across the Quinte & Quinte West Regions will once again gather in solemn remembrance to honour those who served, those who fell, and those who continue to protect the freedoms we cherish. From Trenton and Frankford to Belleville and surrounding towns, residents are invited to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the courage and sacrifice of Canada’s veterans. Ceremony in Belleville The City of Belleville will hold its annual Remembrance Day Service at the Cenotaph on Cannifton Road, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 11. Starting at 10:30am allows the ceremony to lead naturally into the national moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. The service is organized by the Belleville Veterans Council and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 99. It will feature a parade of veterans and cadets, the playing of the Last Post, prayers, and the laying of wreaths in honour of those who gave their lives for our freedom. City Hall, the Thurlow Landfill, and other municipal offices will be closed for the day, although Belleville Transit will continue operating to help residents attend the ceremony. Ceremonies Across Quinte West In Quinte West, the main Remembrance Day ceremony will take place at 11:00 a.m. at the Trenton Cenotaph and Veterans Memorial, located at Fraser Park Drive and Quinte Street. At the same time, a second ceremony will be held at the Frankford Cenotaph on Regional Road 5, giving residents in both communities the opportunity to gather close to home. Temporary road closures will be in effect between 9:45 a.m. and noon in both Trenton and Frankford to allow space for the parades and services. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early, and show patience and respect throughout the morning. These gatherings are coordinated by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 110 in Trenton, along with local veteran groups, cadets, first responders, and community organizations. Why We Remember Remembrance Day marks the moment the guns fell silent at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918, bringing an end to the First World War. More than a century later, the red poppy remains a powerful symbol of reflection and gratitude. It reminds us of the immense cost of war and the price paid for the freedoms we enjoy today. Through silence, wreath-laying, and shared community presence, we renew our promise to remember those who have fallen, to honour those who served, and to support the men and women who continue to serve our country. How You Can Pay Respects • Attend a local ceremony. Whether you are in Trenton, Frankford, or Belleville, your presence matters. • Pause for two minutes of silence at 11 a.m., wherever you are. • Wear your poppy proudly. It is a simple gesture that carries deep meaning. • Teach the next generation what this day represents. • Thank a veteran or serving member for the life we live that is full of freedom today. A Shared Moment of Gratitude As the Last Post echoes across cenotaphs and communities fall silent, take a moment to reflect not only on what was sacrificed but also on what was gained. The peace, safety, and opportunity we enjoy each day are built on their service and courage. This Remembrance Day, Quinte and Quinte West stand together to remember, to honour, and to give thanks. Take a moment. Share this message. And thank a veteran for the life we all live today. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

| Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Updated:  Sunday, November 9, 2025 Location:  Eastern Ontario As winter weather continues to blanket much of eastern Ontario, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)  are reminding drivers to slow down and use caution  after officers responded to more than 120 collisions between noon and 4 p.m on November 9th, 2025 . Most of the incidents involved vehicles sliding off the road , though some were multi-vehicle collisions . Fortunately, there have been no reported fatalities , and injuries so far appear to be non-life-threatening . Road Closures and Conditions The combination of heavy snow, reduced visibility, and slippery surfaces led to temporary lane closures  along stretches of both Highway 401 and Highway 417 . While many sections have since reopened, conditions remain poor , especially in exposed or higher-elevation areas where blowing snow continues to impact visibility. If you must travel tonight, plan ahead and check road conditions  before heading out. The 511 Ontario website ( www.511on.ca )  and municipal511.ca  both provide real-time updates on highway closures, lane reductions, and weather-related impacts. A Few Friendly Reminders for Safe Winter Driving Slow down . Posted speed limits are for ideal conditions, not snowy ones. Leave extra space  between you and the car ahead; stopping distances increase dramatically on icy roads. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns  that can cause skidding. Clear all snow and ice  from your vehicle, including headlights and roof, before hitting the road. Stay alert and focused ; visibility can drop quickly during heavy snowfall. If you can, postpone non-essential travel  until conditions improve overnight or tomorrow morning. Community Message From all of us at Small Town News : If you do need to go out tonight, please drive with care  and look out for one another . Take your time, plan your route, and get where you need to go safely. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Cramahe Township, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | Update: As of 7:35pm the Eastbound Lanes of Highway 401 have been reopened. Traffic is still moving slowly but cars have begun moving. Update: As of 5:23pm the Eastbound Lanes of Highway 401 have been closed. Traffic is being redirected due to poor road conditions and multiple accidents along the corridor. Traffic on Highway 401 going eastbound has come to a complete stop this evening near Shelter Valley Road in Northumberland County after a serious multi-vehicle collision. Emergency crews, including Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and local fire departments, are currently on scene. Early reports indicate that several vehicles were involved, prompting a full closure of the eastbound lanes as first responders work to assist those involved and clear the wreckage. Motorists travelling through the area are urged to avoid the 401 eastbound between Grafton and Colborne, as traffic remains at a standstill and significant delays are expected. Drivers are advised to use County Road 2 or other alternate routes until the highway reopens. As of now, no confirmed details have been released regarding injuries or the cause of the crash. The OPP is expected to issue an official update once the scene has been cleared and lanes begin to reopen. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash-cam footage from the area around Shelter Valley Road is asked to contact the Northumberland OPP or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). With the heavy snow please drive safe if you have to go out and plan ahead, if possible curl up on the couch and enjoy some nice hot cocoa. Please share this notice with others to help give them a heads up just in case they have to travel in this direction To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Updated: 11:32 a.m. EST, Sunday, November 9, 2025 Location: Belleville, Quinte West and Northumberland County Update 4:19pm, November 9th, 2025: The heavy snow has started to fly out there. Drive safe folks, if you have to be out. Accidents have begun emerging from all over the region What started as a snowfall watch has now been upgraded to a full Snowfall Warning for Belleville, Quinte West, and Eastern Northumberland County, as a strong winter system moves through the area. Environment Canada is forecasting 10 to 20 centimetres of snow, with the heaviest bands hitting later this afternoon and evening. At times, snow could fall at 2 to 5 centimetres per hour, quickly covering roads and reducing visibility. When to Expect It Snow will continue for most of the day and evening, with the worst conditions expected late this afternoon into tonight. Conditions are expected to improve overnight, but roads will likely remain slippery during the morning commute. What’s Coming Heavy, steady snow that will make driving difficult and visibility poor at times. Freezing rain or ice pellets could mix in for some areas later tonight, especially further east, which might lower total snowfall but create even slicker conditions. Power outages are possible, as heavy, wet snow can cling to tree branches and power lines. Travel and Safety Tips If you don’t absolutely need to be on the road tonight, it’s best to stay home and wait it out. For those who do need to travel, please take it slow and plan ahead: Give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Keep your headlights on and your distance from other vehicles. Clear snow and ice completely from your car before driving, especially from the roof and lights. Watch for ice at intersections and on bridges. Pack an emergency kit with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, water, and snacks in case of delays. If you lose power, keep flashlights handy, keep your phone charged and accessible, and avoid using fuel-burning devices like barbecues or generators indoors. A Friendly Reminder From Us at Small Town News If you must be out, take your time and drive carefully. Check in on neighbours, especially seniors, and let’s look out for one another as this early winter storm makes its way through. Please share this alert with friends and family to help keep them informed and so they can plan ahead To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us, please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

Ontario’s Building a More Competitive Economy Act, 2025; officially known as Bill 56 has received Royal Assent, making it law. The wide-ranging legislation introduces reforms to several areas of provincial governance, including business regulation, labour mobility, environmental policy, and transportation enforcement. One of the most notable changes is the decision to end the use of municipal automated speed-enforcement (ASE) cameras across Ontario. What Bill 56 Covers Bill 56 is part of the provincial government’s broader effort to simplify and modernize Ontario’s regulatory landscape. The legislation’s stated goals include improving efficiency for businesses, strengthening interprovincial labour recognition, and updating environmental and administrative frameworks. Key areas addressed in the Act include: Business Permits and Approvals: The province plans a full review of business-related permits by 2028, aiming to eliminate redundancies and create a streamlined, single-window digital application system. Labour Mobility and Credential Recognition: Skilled professionals certified in other provinces will be recognized more quickly under “as-of-right” rules. Certain healthcare professionals will also be able to begin work in Ontario while final registration is pending. Environmental and Resource Management: The Clean Water Act and Crown Forest Sustainability Act are amended to shorten approval timelines and coordinate environmental planning. Updates to the Species Conservation Act, 2025 are also included. Heritage and Technical Changes: The bill makes procedural updates to the Ontario Heritage Act and Regulated Health Professions Act, improving administrative consistency across ministries. Changes to Speed Enforcement A central focus of public discussion has been the section of Bill 56 that amends the Highway Traffic Act, removing the legal authority for municipalities to operate automated speed-enforcement systems. Once the law takes effect, municipal ASE cameras will need to be deactivated and removed, and any related signage updated. After that point, tickets issued through these systems will no longer be valid. Municipalities have been given a transition period to comply, with all removals to be completed by November 14th, 2025 . Many municipalities have chosen to keep them active until they are removed. The provincial government has stated that the change is intended to shift enforcement away from automated ticketing and toward infrastructure-based safety measures, such as better signage, raised crosswalks, and road-design improvements. Traditional police radar, lidar, and patrol enforcement will continue as before. Provincial and Municipal Response Reaction to the policy has been mixed across Ontario. Supporters argue that the change reduces administrative costs and prioritizes proactive safety design over delayed penalties. Critics, including several municipal leaders and road-safety organizations worry that removing 24-hour monitoring could lead to increased speeding in vulnerable zones such as school areas. Municipalities like Toronto and Ottawa previously reported lower average vehicle speeds and fewer collisions in ASE zones. With the new legislation in place, local governments are reviewing how to maintain safety without automated systems, including the use of new physical traffic-calming tools and targeted enforcement. Implications for Drivers and Communities For Ontario drivers, the end of ASE means that speeding tickets issued by municipal cameras will cease once the transition is complete. However, speed limits remain fully enforceable, and police will continue regular traffic enforcement using conventional equipment. Municipalities, including those in Belleville, Quinte West, Northumberland, and Trent Hills will need to finalize their compliance plans over the coming weeks. Many are expected to introduce new safety measures in high-traffic and school zones before the transition period ends. Beyond Road Safety Although the speed-camera change has drawn the most attention, Bill 56 encompasses much more than transportation policy. Business owners could benefit from reduced red tape and faster approvals, skilled workers may find it easier to relocate and work across provinces, and environmental approvals are being modernized to balance conservation with economic development. Together, these measures form a broad restructuring of how Ontario regulates its economy, infrastructure, and workforce. The effectiveness of the reforms, both for local communities and for the province’s competitiveness will depend on how efficiently the changes are implemented. Bill 56 Effects Us All Bill 56 affects nearly every corner of provincial governance from roads and small businesses to environmental oversight. The removal of speed cameras has sparked conversation across Ontario about road safety, enforcement fairness, and local accountability. What do you think? Will improved infrastructure and police enforcement be enough to maintain safety? Do you support or oppose the end of municipal speed-camera programs? How do you feel about the other changes included in Bill 56? Share your thoughts with us; your perspective helps inform local coverage and encourage community discussion. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Image Courtesy of: Belleville Police BELLEVILLE, ON | Small Town News | A Division of Small Town Productions | A young driver is facing serious charges after being caught traveling at more than three times the posted speed limit in Belleville earlier this week. On November 4th, at approximately 8:50 p.m., officers with the Belleville Police Service were conducting traffic enforcement along Bell Boulevard when a vehicle was clocked at 169 km/h in a 50 km/h zone. As a result, an 18-year-old man from Burnstown was charged with stunt driving under the Highway Traffic Act. Police say his driver’s licence was immediately suspended for 30 days, and the vehicle was impounded for 14 days. The accused was issued a summons with a court date in December. Police continue to remind motorists that excessive speed remains one of the leading causes of serious and fatal collisions on Ontario roadways. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com

The Government of Canada released its 2025 federal budget yesterday (November 4, 2025)  under the title Budget 2025 – Canada Strong . The 493-page document outlines the government’s fiscal framework and policy priorities under three headings: Build , Protect , and Empower . Fiscal Framework The budget describes a fiscal strategy to “spend less to invest more,” separating daily operating costs from long-term capital spending.Two main goals are identified: balancing regular operating spending with revenues by 2028-29 and maintaining a declining deficit-to-GDP ratio. The document projects a budgetary deficit of 78 billion dollars in 2025-26 , narrowing to 57 billion dollars by 2029-30 .As a share of the economy, the deficit-to-GDP ratio  is forecast to fall from 2.3 percent in 2025-26 to 1.4 percent by 2029-30 . A Comprehensive Expenditure Review  is expected to generate 60 billion dollars in savings over five years  through program restructuring and slower administrative growth. Program-spending growth, which averaged about 8 percent annually over the past decade, is projected to decline to below 1 percent through 2029. The budget lists Canada’s net debt-to-GDP ratio at 13.3 percent , identifying it as the lowest among G7 countries.According to figures cited in the publication from the International Monetary Fund Fiscal Monitor (October 2025) , the comparative net debt-to-GDP ratios are: Japan:  130.1 percent Italy:  126.9 percent France:  108.2 percent United States:  99.6 percent United Kingdom:  94.6 percent Germany:  48.7 percent Canada:  13.3 percent The document also notes that Canada and Germany are the only G7 countries holding AAA credit ratings . Source:   Budget 2025 – Canada Strong , Department of Finance Canada, pages 71 – 72 (IMF Fiscal Monitor October 2025 data as cited within). Economic Context The budget attributes current economic pressures to slower global growth and higher trade barriers.It reports that average U.S. tariffs have risen to 17 percent, contributing to declines in Canadian exports of steel, aluminum, autos, and agricultural goods. The national unemployment rate is listed as 7.1 percent (as of September 2025), and real GDP growth is projected at about 1 percent per year for 2025 and 2026. Investment Priorities The document outlines 280 billion dollars in capital investments over five years , or roughly 450 billion on a cash basis.Planned allocations include: Infrastructure:  115 billion Productivity and Competitiveness:  110 billion Defence and Security:  30 billion Housing:  25 billion These amounts are presented as projections within the government’s publication. Housing and Affordability A new federal agency, Build Canada Homes , is introduced to coordinate public and private housing investment.The goal is to increase national homebuilding from about 280,000 units per year to between 430,000 and 480,000 within a decade. The budget also proposes removing the Goods and Services Tax (GST)  for first-time home buyers on properties valued under one million dollars. Other affordability measures listed in the document include: A middle-class income-tax reduction Cancellation of the consumer carbon price Permanent funding for the National School Food Program An automatic benefits system for low-income individuals  beginning in the 2028 tax year No third-party evaluation of these programs is included in the document. Defence and Security The budget states that Canada will meet NATO’s 2 percent defence-spending target  in 2025 and plans to move toward a 5 percent Defence Investment Pledge  by 2035. It describes the creation of a Defence Investment Agency , modernization of Canadian Armed Forces equipment , and increased pay for service members. Other measures include hiring 1 000 RCMP officers  and 1 000 Canada Border Services Agency officers , and forming a Financial Crimes Agency  to investigate money-laundering and complex fraud. Innovation and Productivity The budget introduces a Productivity Super Deduction  to accelerate business-investment write-offs and expands research-and-development tax incentives. It also allocates funding for artificial-intelligence and technology projects.These measures are described as encouraging private capital and supporting productivity growth, though no independent verification is provided. Public-Service Modernization A new Office of Digital Transformation  is outlined to coordinate technology adoption within federal operations.The budget links this initiative to efficiency and cost savings but does not provide specific implementation timelines or evaluation criteria. What Are Your Thoughts? The 2025 budget lays out the federal government’s planned spending, savings, and economic priorities for the years ahead. Do you believe these measures address the right areas of need? How do you feel about Canada’s fiscal approach compared to other G7 countries? Share your thoughts and join the conversation below. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

The Kingston Police Service are reminding residents that not every surprise visitor in the home is an emergency, especially when that visitor happens to be a bat. Police say they’ve seen a noticeable rise in 911 calls from residents who have discovered bats flying or sleeping indoors. While the concern is understandable, these calls are tying up emergency lines that need to remain open for genuine crises. “We’re asking residents to reserve 911 for life-threatening emergencies only,” the service noted in a recent advisory. “If you find a bat in your house, there are safer and more appropriate ways to handle it.” Why It Matters Bats are a normal part of Ontario’s ecosystem and often find their way into homes through small gaps or open windows, particularly during warmer months. While they can carry rabies, most encounters are not dangerous when handled calmly and correctly. However, calling 911 for a routine wildlife issue can delay emergency responses for those truly in need. Kingston Police want to ensure help is available for people facing immediate danger or medical emergencies, not misplaced animals. What To Do If You Find a Bat Indoors If a bat appears in your home: Stay calm and avoid contact. Don’t try to catch or touch it. Provide an escape route. Open a window or door leading outside and close off the rest of the room so it can exit. Call the right people. For safe removal, contact a licensed wildlife control service or Kingston Animal Services through the City of Kingston website. If someone is bitten or scratched, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Rabies is rare but serious, and prompt treatment is essential. Report dead bats or potential rabies exposure to the local public health unit. A Call for Awareness Police emphasize that using the non-emergency line or contacting wildlife experts keeps 911 free for urgent matters. Residents are encouraged to share this reminder with friends, neighbours, and family members, particularly during late summer and fall when bats are more active. “We all play a role in keeping our emergency system effective,” police added. “Knowing who to call helps everyone stay safer.” For More Information Visit cityofkingston.ca/wildlife for details on local animal control and safety guidance. To report non-urgent concerns, contact Kingston Police at 613-549-4660. For emergencies or confirmed bites, always dial 911. Have you ever had a bat fly into your home? Share your experience or your best tip for safely guiding them back outside, your story might help others stay calm and informed. 🦇 Let’s keep Kingston safe and share this notice to help clear confusion and keep 911 lines open. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

2nd Update: As of 10:29pm the flow of traffic seems to have returned to normal. Update: As of 9:03pm the right lane has reopened, while the left lane and left shoulder remain closed. Motorists traveling westbound on Highway 401 near County Road 41 in the area of Napanee are being advised of significant delays this evening after a transport truck fire forced the closure of both lanes. According to the Lennox and Addington County OPP, emergency crews remain on scene responding to the incident. Traffic is moving slowly through the area, and drivers are urged to proceed with caution and patience while first responders work to secure the scene and clear debris. Authorities have not yet released details regarding injuries or the cause of the fire. The Ontario Provincial Police and local fire services are continuing their investigation. Commuters are encouraged to check Ontario 511 for real-time updates and to consider alternate routes until all lanes have reopened. Updates will be provided as information becomes available. 🚨 Help spread the word: share this update to keep other drivers informed and safe on the roads today. To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup  or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news Link for Donations We’re proudly independent, with no corporate or political ties, just a commitment to truthful, fact-based reporting. Your support not only helps us stay free from outside influence but also allows us to give back to the communities we serve through meaningful coverage, outreach, and support where it matters most. If you value honest local journalism, please consider donating through the link below. Anything helps us keep you informed and make a real difference.   https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6 Small Business Spotlight If you wish to advertise with us please email smalltownproductionscanada@gmail.com