Fire officials urge Winnipeggers to clear backlanes to deter arsonists

Winnipeg fire and paramedic crews will be out talking to homeowners on Thursday, asking them to clean up their backlanes to deter arsonists.

Crews have responded to dozens of fires, many intentionally set, over the last two weeks.

On Tuesday, city officials asked homeowners to do their part by removing flammable material and bulky waste from outside their homes.

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On Wednesday, the backlane of Redwood Avenue had mattresses, couches and furniture stacked up.

"All the mattresses that come out -- that's a hell of a good start! You know, that will burn if anything will," said Rodney Pearson, a homeowner who lives on the street.

Neighbours in the area blamed the tenants of several rooming houses on the street.

"Three or four mattresses were like laying out here against [a] house, and I'm like, 'Wow. Somebody sets that on fire it's gonna set the whole building on fire!'" said Zivana Jacobson, who lives in an apartment block in the area. "I'm pretty concerned for all people out there. I'm thinking people should clean it up."

City officials say arson is not on the rise compared to last year, but warmer weather usually brings with it an increase in cases.

City crews plan to do a sweep of back lanes soon, and they're reminding homeowners that crews will pick up large items like mattresses for a $10 fee.