Winnipeg, MB - The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service would like to remind Winnipeg residents to protect themselves against the dangers of arson and fire setting during the summer months. Residents can reduce their risk by getting involved in community action, promptly reporting fire hazards, and carrying out arson prevention techniques.
Community Action
Help prevent arsons in your neighbourhood by joining or starting a Neighbourhood Watch Program by contacting the Winnipeg Police Service Crime Prevention Unit at 204-986-6322.
If you see any suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, call 911. Be cautious of people carrying containers and strangers loitering. If the suspicious individual is in a car, note the license plate number.
Prevention
Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of arson on your property:
- Use motion-activated lights to brighten the outside of your home or garage.
- Keep shrubs and trees near buildings trimmed. They could be used as a hiding spot or as a source for fuel.
- Store flammable material safely.
- Dispose of garbage, leaves, lumber and bulky waste (such as mattresses or couches) properly and promptly. Firewood should be kept well away from your house or garage.
- Keep doors and windows secured. Don't use double-keyed locks or bars on bedroom windows that could trap a person inside during a fire.
- Keep locks, hinges, frames, doors and windows in good repair. Check skylights, roof hatches, fences and gates regularly to ensure they are secured.
- Be alert to any smoke or unusual odours.
- Smoke alarms won't stop an arson fire, but they can save your life. Make sure you have working smoke alarms installed and change the batteries every year. Test your alarms monthly.
- Develop and practice a home escape plan and regularly review it with your family.
For more information on steps you can take to prevent arsons in your neighbourhood, call 204-986-6380 or see the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service’s Reducing Opportunities for Arson checklist.
Reporting
In Winnipeg, call 911 to report a fire. Outside Winnipeg, call 911 or call your local police, RCMP or fire department.
To report accumulations of bulky waste on curbs or in back lanes, contact 311 by phone at 311, or by email at 311@winnipeg.ca.
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service regularly inspects rooming houses and public buildings for possible fire hazards, and leads prevention workshops and active patrols in communities to make Winnipeg a safer city.
For more information on reducing your arson risk, visit Winnipeg.ca/fps or call 204-986-6380.