Peterborough Fire Services aided someone out of a fiery tent on a property on Wolfe Street, east of Aylmer Street, on Sunday.
Fire Services originally responded for a possible fire and found a campfire under a tarped enclosure. While extinguishing the campfire, firefighters saw a tent with a person inside that began to ignite. Firefighters and a pedestrian alerted the occupant and helped them get out. The fire was immediately extinguished shortly after. Peterborough Paramedics assessed the individual and did not go to the hospital as a result of the incident.
Tenting and open-air burning is prohibited on City property except where permitted in Beavermead Campground according to the City of Peterborough. In the winter, health and safety concerns are heightened with exposure to extreme cold and the increased risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning from unsafe heating sources.
Social Services outreach workers regularly reach anyone who are experiencing homelessness and who are tenting to offer assistance with accessing available shelter and housing services.