By paNOW

Arson to blame for garbage can fires: Fire Chief

Aug 8, 2017 | 6:00 PM

An arsonist is at work in the Gateway to the North.

Between the end of May and the first week of August at least 22 garbage cans or dumpsters have been set on fire. Although it is possible incompatible contents caused some of the blazes, Fire Chief Jason Everitt believes arson is to blame.

“All of those fires are arson,” Everitt said. “I do believe the majority we have seen so far are malicious.”

Everitt said there are portions of the city which are more prone to malicious fires due to a higher prominence of dumpsters and waste bins. Over half of the reported fires have been set between Fourth Ave. W and 12th Ave. W.

The department is investigating the fires, and many of them have been deemed suspicious according to updates to their Facebook page.

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“We connect with various agencies that can provide identification and support and some measures to try and not only identify [the perpetrator], but figure out the root causes of the problem,” Everitt said.

The fire chief recommended people who come across a garbage fire should stay back and avoid trying to fight it. He said trash can blazes are hazards to health and safety, because the plastics are highly toxic and the contents could be as well.

Residents of P.A. can do their part to help reduce the number of fires while helping fire department and police investigations, Everitt said.

“Make sure roll out bins are kept within the yard site and not left on street or alley… Report any suspicious activity right now,” he added. “Residents need to call right away so we have the best chance of identifying who is responsible and get some help… to steer them in the right direction.”

The Prince Albert Police Service were unable to provide comment by deadline.

Bryan.Eneas@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas