The City of Cold Lake is grappling with a recurring issue of fires being set at the Cold Lake landfill, posing both safety hazards and environmental concerns. These fires believed to be started for warmth have become a pressing issue for the municipality.
Despite efforts from Cold Lake fire-rescue and public works staff to swiftly contain the fires, the incidents remain a significant danger to those setting them and a liability for the city. The most recent fire occurred in the early hours of February 5th, making it the third incident at the landfill this winter.
Mayor Craig Copeland emphasized the dangers associated with these fires and stressed the importance of reporting them to Alberta Environment. He urged individuals facing housing insecurities to seek refuge at the Cold Lake John Howard shelter. The mayor cautioned against the risks posed by outdoor camps, citing instances of out-of-control fires and reports of weapons caches found at these sites.
Landfill fires, if left uncontrolled, present not only a public safety risk but also environmental hazards, with potential implications for air quality. The city has been diligent in reporting these incidents to Alberta Environment and acknowledges the swift response and hard work of public works staff and fire-rescue teams.
Efforts to prevent trespassing and monitor the landfill, transfer station, and material recovery facility are ongoing. However, the complex nature of the facility poses challenges, making it difficult and costly to apprehend individuals on-site.
Mayor Copeland reiterated the importance of utilizing the shelter as the safest option for those in need of warmth, emphasizing tis access to essential resources.
In addition to the fires at the landfill, Cold Lake’s fire services have responded to and extinguished over 34 other warming fires this winter season, marking a concern increase compared to previous years.
The city remains committed to addressing these challenges, implementing measures to secure the facility and intensifying monitoring efforts to ensure public safety and environmental protections.
