(Image Credit: City of Lethbridge)

By LNN Staff

Public Safety Focus

City asks residents to report encampments to reduce fire risk

Jan 19, 2026 | 2:24 PM

Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES), Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) and the City of Lethbridge’s Community Social Development (CSD) department are reminding residents that reporting encampments plays a key role in preventing fires and supporting a coordinated, community-based response. 

The City’s Encampment Response Team (ERT) says it is aware that encampments exist across Lethbridge, but they do not always know where sites are located or when they return. The city says when encampments are reported, the ERT can assess hazards and proactively address risks to occupants and the community, while connecting individuals to outreach services. 

Officials say data from the City’s Encampment Response Report (2023-2025) shows that public reporting leads to measurable safety outcomes. Over this period, the ERT is said to have triaged more than 2,200 sites and removed more than 85,000 kilograms of debris city-wide. During the same timeframe, officials say outdoor fire incidents declined by 27.7 per cent from 2023 to 2024, even as reports of encampments increased. 

“Early awareness allows our crews to address hazards before they become emergencies,” says Greg Adair, Chief of LFES. “Reporting helps us reduce fire risk, protect nearby homes and natural areas, keeping both responders and public safe.”

Officials say the city’s encampment response model is a coordinated approach that brings together fire services, public safety, outreach and social support services. When a site is reported, city teams assess fire and life-safety risks. They work to remove hazardous materials, such as propane tanks and debris, while connecting individuals with services through outreach partners.

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Officials note that the Lethbridge Police Service also plays a supportive and safety-oriented role in encampment cleanups, primarily focused on public safety, seizing illegal items and enforcing the law when necessary. 

“Reporting is about safety and connecting people to help,” says Andrew Malcolm, General Manager, CSD. “Encampments reported give us the information we need to respond quickly, so we can reduce risk and offer support.”

How to report encampments 

If you observe an encampment or conditions that may present a fire or safety risk, you are encouraged to report it:

• Online: City of Lethbridge Public Safety reporting form 
• By phone: 311 
• Emergencies or active fire risk, call 9-1-1 

When reporting, residents are asked to provide the location and any visible hazards. Timely and accurate reports allow city teams to respond effectively. 

LFES, LPS and CSD thank residents for their role in keeping Lethbridge safe.