Calgary Firefighters Address 191 Warming Fires Amidst Growing Business Concerns
Calgary firefighters responded to a significant number of warming fires throughout the past year, with official reports indicating 191 incidents were handled by emergency crews. The majority of these fires were concentrated in the city's Beltline district, sparking serious concerns among local business owners regarding both structural safety and the welfare of vulnerable individuals seeking warmth during cold nights.
Business Owners Voice Safety Apprehensions
Local entrepreneurs have expressed mounting worries about the potential dangers posed by these warming fires. Al Carswell, proprietor of Civic Tavern located on 12th Avenue in the Beltline, has personally contacted emergency services multiple times this winter due to late-night fires igniting near his establishment. Carswell operates his business from a historic 1911 Victorian house, which he describes as particularly vulnerable to fire hazards.
"I'm in a 1911 wooden house. It's one of the oldest homes downtown," Carswell explained. "All that it might take is wind blowing in the wrong direction or something and things can get out of hand real fast." He recounted one incident where he observed a fire reaching three to four feet in height, with an individual actively adding combustible materials to sustain the flames.
Community Impact and Structural Vulnerabilities
The Beltline neighborhood has become a focal point for these warming fires, with specific locations like the alleys between 10th, 11th, and 12th Avenues frequently serving as sites for these incidents. Carswell noted that fires often occur near the former Beltline Community Hub building, which ceased operations in 2022, creating additional safety concerns due to proximity to wooden structures and mature trees.
Katie Thies, Executive Director of the Beltline Business Improvement Area, confirmed that warming fires represent a recurring challenge for local enterprises. "It happens quite frequently down here, especially this time of year when it's a little bit chilly out," Thies stated. While acknowledging that many fires remain contained, she emphasized that several business patios have been damaged, and the exterior of their own office building has been affected by warming fire incidents.
Balancing Safety with Compassionate Solutions
Business leaders are approaching this complex issue with sensitivity, recognizing the underlying humanitarian dimensions. Carswell articulated this balanced perspective clearly: "I want to be very careful. I don't want to feed into any narrative about the people that are doing this. If people are setting fires because they can't stay warm at night, then maybe there's something that can be done about that."
This sentiment reflects a broader community concern about addressing root causes rather than merely responding to symptoms. Carswell expressed apprehension about potential escalation, warning that "it's just a matter of time before something really bad is going to happen" if systemic solutions aren't developed.
Seeking Sustainable Community Responses
The situation highlights the intersection of public safety, business interests, and social welfare in urban environments. While warming fires provide temporary relief from harsh winter conditions for unhoused individuals, they simultaneously create legitimate safety hazards for nearby structures and residents.
Community stakeholders are now calling for comprehensive approaches that address both immediate safety concerns and the underlying need for adequate warming alternatives during Calgary's cold winter months. The conversation continues about how municipal resources, business communities, and social services can collaborate to develop sustainable solutions that protect both property and people.
