Vancouver fire warning issued amid ‘alarming increase’ in 2023

Officials in Vancouver are urging vigilance, saying there’s been “an alarming increase in fire incidents” so far this year.

According to Vancouver Fire Rescue Services (VFRS), the number of fires reported in the first half of 2023 is up 31 per cent over the same time last year.

The leading cause of the fires, VFRS says, is “carelessly discarded smokers’ materials.” However, that is not the only concern cited by the service.

In a public information bulletin, VFRS says there’s been a “worrying increase in structure fires,” including fires at Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units, and outdoors.

“While tent fires have significantly decreased, the most alarming spike has been observed in outdoor fires, which have risen by a significant 42.3% from Q1/Q2 of 2022. It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant when engaging in outdoor activities that involve open flames or flammable materials,” the department says in its bulletin.

Rise in arson calls

Of most concern, according to crews, is what they describe as an increase in the number of arson or incendiary fires.

Capt. Matthew Trudeau, public information officer for VFRS, says there have been three or four fires set in the last few months by individuals walking through neighbourhoods, seemingly randomly and indiscriminately, using combustible material or garbage cans, dumpsters, and mattresses.

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VFRS says of the fires reported so far in 2023, 26 per cent fall into the category of being deliberately set. Work is ongoing with police to “identify and address the root causes of such acts,” VFRS adds.

“VFRS appeals to every member of the community to prioritize fire safety in their daily lives,” the fire department says in its public appeal.

Increase in incidents putting a strain on crews

While Trudeau points out that VFRS’ first priority is to service the public, the jump in incidents takes a toll on crews as well.

“The downstream impact is we are responding to record calls overall, specifically with fires which we know release toxic components,” Trudeau said. “The cancer rates among firefighters are already incredibly high, significantly higher than in the average population group.”

As well, he says the mental health challenges of exposure to more traumatic scenes, including overdoses, wears on people.

“It puts a strain across our whole fire service.”

The VFRS is urging people to properly extinguish and dispose of things like cigarettes, and to use things like battery-powered lights instead of candles. It is also reminding people to keep flammables away from anything that could ignite.

“Additionally, we urge everyone to report any suspicious activities or potential fire hazards right away. During dry conditions fires will spread quickly, call 911 right away if smoke or flames are seen,” VFRS adds.

– With files from Michael Williams