Friday, May 15, 2020
Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service reminds residents to help prevent arsonWinnipeg, MB – The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service (WFPS) reminds residents to take steps to prevent fires in their yards and properties.
Each spring, the WFPS sees an increase in the number of fires, particularly those which are determined to be incendiary, or purposely set. Earlier this week, the WFPS responded to a number of outdoor fires that were deemed suspicious. In April and May 2019, there were 99 incendiary and suspicious fires.
“Outdoor fires often start in garbage bins or in bulk waste left outside, such as furniture or mattresses. These fires can grow very quickly spread to nearby homes or structures, putting lives at risk and causing significant property damage,” said Mark Reshaur , Assistant Chief of Fire Prevention and Public Education.
In an effort to reduce these types of fires, the WFPS operates its Community Fire Prevention Partnership (CFPP) with Local Business Improvement Zones and Take Pride Winnipeg to help identify and report properties at risk of arson in the community.
In addition, WFPS crews conduct neighbourhood fire prevention inspections throughout the spring and summer months to help identify potential fire hazards. If a property is found to have a fire risk, firefighters provide the property owner with an information pamphlet and instructions on how to reduce the identified fire risks. Property owners can help prevent the risk of arson:
- Only put your garbage and recycling carts and yard waste out on your collection day
- Dispose of garbage, yard waste, lumber, and bulky waste (such as mattresses or couches) properly and promptly
- Contact 311 to schedule a pickup of your bulky waste items or to report fire hazards
- Keep all garbage, bulky waste, and firewood well away from your house or garage
- Use motion-activated lights to brighten the outside of your home or garage
Members of the public are also reminded to contact the Winnipeg Police Service’s non-emergency line if they notice someone entering a vacant structure.For more fire prevention tips and resources, see: winnipeg.ca/fireprevention.
