Loitering causing safety concerns by fire station in downtown Sudbury

Guards provide security at fire station in Sudbury Sudbury has contracted security guards to protect the public and firefighters at the city's downtown fire station.

There is enhanced security outside the main fire hall in downtown Sudbury in response to safety concerns.

City officials said corporate security, along with Greater Sudbury Fire Services, determined there was a need for increased security at the site.

The station is beside the Samaritan Centre, which offers a number of services to the homeless and vulnerable.

Right now, a contractor is providing security guards who watch for loitering and safety issues in the area and when firefighters and trucks respond to emergencies.

"We have stationed a contracted service there for eight hours per day to assist with loitering," said Stefany Mussen, Sudbury's director of corporate security and bylaw.

"We are doing that to ensure the safety of members of the public as well as to allow for fire service operations to continue safely."

Officials said the cost of the enhanced security outside the fire hall is $14,000 a month.