Safety increases at University Bridge following fire

Safety measures have been updated following a fire under Saskatoon’s University Bridge on Wednesday.

The blaze began when a mattress from an encampment under the arches caught fire.

“We have determined that the fire was caused by human error,” Fire Chief Morgan Hackl said Friday.

Hackl said security fencing has been in place for many years to limit people from going into the arches. However, he said people continuously try to get into these restricted spaces anyway.

“The security fencing at times is cut, which allows people to move into those areas themselves and with belongings,” said Hackl.

He asked people to respect the boundaries that are set in place, and said they’re there for a reason.

Hackl said the security fencing has been upgraded and access is now secure so people can’t get to the arches.

The investigation by the Saskatoon Fire Department and Saskatoon police is continuing.