Update on Downtown Encampment Safety Actions
On the morning of September 18, during the time when the planned clean up and public safety enhancement work for the encampment was underway, Squamish Fire Rescue and Squamish RCMP attended a fire in the area located at Main Street and Third Avenue. The fire resulted in propane tanks igniting on site, however the fire was quickly struck down, and no injuries were incurred.
The fire began after the encampment area was mostly vacated to accommodate the safety enhancement work. Encampment residents have been required to vacate in advance of safety enhancement activities taking place in the coming days which includes removal of danger trees and site clean up. This work is being led by the District of Squamish with the support of multiple local partners.
Outreach staff from Squamish Helping Hands and BC Housing have been coordinating closely together to support the displaced residents and will continue to do so in the coming days.
RCMP officers, Bylaw, and security workers have been on site to maintain public safety while the District’s work is underway. Bylaw will have an enhanced presence in the downtown area while this work is underway.
The encampment site will now be secured for clean up and danger tree removal work to begin next week.
The District continues to work with BC Housing to confirm a location for the HEARTH temporary transitional housing. This will help support longer‑term encampment response and housing supports for vulnerable populations. For more information and to receive updates, visit squamish.ca/addressing-homelessness.
QUOTES:
“I’m incredibly grateful that no-one was injured today and express my deep appreciation for the efforts of the many agencies involved in this sensitive work including our emergency responders and outreach workers on the ground. This work is challenging for all involved, but necessary. I also thank the neighbours in particular for their compassion as we work with our vulnerable populations to eventually bring them indoors.”
- Armand Hurford, Mayor, District of Squamish
“Squamish Fire Rescue was assisting with the encampment safety work behind 37871 Third Avenue and called in the fire incident at 11:47 a.m. this morning to Ecomm dispatch and fire crews. Squamish Fire Rescue responded with one fire engine and an incident commander. No injuries were reported from this incident and the property has been secured for further safety measures to address the ongoing safety concerns on site.”
- Aaron Foote, Fire Chief, Squamish Fire Rescue
“RCMP officers were in the area of Third Avenue and Main Street today to maintain public safety and keep the peace while the District of Squamish conducted its encampment safety enhancement activities. At approximately 11:47 a.m., a fire occurred within the encampment area. Officers responded quickly to help ensure public safety and maintain access for Squamish Fire Rescue. Squamish RCMP is working with Squamish Fire Rescue to determine the cause of the fire. No injuries were reported.”
- Sascha Banks, Staff Sergeant, Sea to Sky RCMP
“This was an unsettling experience for everyone involved, but we’re deeply grateful no one was hurt and everyone is safe. Squamish Helping Hands exists for the people we serve and the people who show up every day, including our staff, our volunteers, and the community members who rely on us. We thank Squamish Fire Rescue for their quick response, which has allowed us to keep doing the important work needed for our collective community.”
- Lori Pyne, Executive Director, Squamish Helping Hands
September 18, 2026