Statement regarding encampment safety: Fire crews extinguish flames inside wood structure

Kingston Fire & Rescue, exercising powers under section 15 of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, removed a wood structure today in Belle Park to remove or reduce an immediate threat to life.

The action is not related to enforcement of the Parks By-Law's prohibition on daytime camping in parks.

Under the Act, fire inspectors who believe a risk of fire poses an immediate threat to life have the authority to enter on land or premises and remove anything that may constitute a fire menace or take any action urgently required to remove or reduce the threat to life.

Last night fire crews responded to a reported structure fire at Belle Park. It was located inside a combustible structure built onto a tree. Deputy Kevin Donaldson says crews were able to extinguish the fire and after investigating, discovered the source.

“We determined a homemade wood stove was in operation at the time of the fire and it had a stop sign blocking the opening where venting of heat and smoke would typically take place. Several clothing items were also placed on top of the homemade heating device and caught fire,” says Donaldson. 

“We remain very concerned about the immediate threat to life posed by devices inside tents and structures,” Donaldson adds. “We can’t repeat enough the safety and well-being of all individuals is always our priority”.

Fire officials say they’ve issued three previous Immediate Threats to Life to individuals at this structure and one for the removal of the structure due to potential fire and life safety risks. 

Donaldson says to date Kingston Fire & Rescue has taken action to remove or reduce immediate threats to life within Belle Park approximately 33 separate times.

Support workers and staff from the City's Housing and Social Services department were on site and available to assist anyone affected by the removal of this tent, including offering storage options for belongings, shelter space and transportation.