Sudbury fire officials warn of risks while trying to stay warm in tents

Encampment fires a danger as weather turns colder The wintery conditions make living outdoors in Sudbury even more challenging for more than 200 people living in encampments.

Greater Sudbury received its first blanket of snow this weekend, with temperatures dropping below zero.

The wintery conditions make living outdoors even more challenging for more than 200 people living in encampments in the city.

Fire services said Monday it's working with community partners to get the message out about fire safety as people try to stay warm.

On Monday, snow covered tents in Energy Court as the colder weather sets in.

Fire services said community outreach workers are distributing fire safety pamphlets to people living in 42 encampments across the city.

"Certainly it is a big concern for us as a fire service," said deputy fire chief Jesse Oshell.

"We don’t want anyone hurt. We want it all done as safely as possible and we know that these individuals are simply trying to stay warm."

Oshell said people living in tents often use fuel-fired appliances for heat, but some are not aware of the risks.

"Like a propane heater, there still is the potential for carbon monoxide and there aren’t any carbon monoxide detectors in these tent areas," he said.

"If you place it too closely to the material or if they have it close to their belongings when they are asleep, we have seen potential and experiences where they do catch other items on fire accidentally."

One man we talked to who lives in a tent near downtown said he stays warm by burning candles. Oshell said that can also pose risks.

"Certainly, every year we do see candles as a source of ignition for fires in homes and in other areas," he said.

"Although candles can be used for warmth, you still need to ensure that you are using them safely and you are being very careful with them and where possible, keeping them contained and away from other sources of ignition."

Fire services said since the recent colder weather set in, it has not responded to any fires in encampments.

But it is preparing and is ready.