A pair of Americans have been fined and charged for breaking Canada's Quarantine Act in Ontario's cottage country.

As Muskoka, Ont., continues its reopening strategy, residents are confronting drivers with U.S. licence plates in the area, according to one mayor.

Sources with knowledge of the trip said Premier Doug Ford had to "check on the plumbing" at his summer residence, which is currently under renovation.

A statement from Ford doesn't explicitly advise cottagers not to visit their seasonal properties, but says there will be many other opportunities to do so, and right now health and safety is the province's focus.

Bracebridge's mayor and his counterparts across the region have formed a task force to determine best steps when dealing with the influx of so-called cottagers escaping city life.

Ford said rural areas may have more difficulty replenishing essential items if there is an added demand. He also cited lower hospital capacity in rural areas if treatment is needed.

Wind chill values near -35 C are expected Friday night into Saturday morning, according to Environment Canada.

After the floods that inundated Ontario cottage country, the province has appointed a committee that will provide recommendations to help protect the Muskoka Watershed.

The Ministry of Natural Resources says the fire known as "Parry Sound 33" remains at 113 square kilometres.