Kitchener encampment’s rodent problem spreads to nearby EMS station

A Kitchener encampment's rat problem is now also a problem at an EMS station across the street.

The union representing Waterloo Region paramedics said it's clear the region hasn't or isn't doing enough to deal with the infestation at the encampment at the corner of Weber and Victoria streets.

“The concern was brought to me as a union representative by our members, or paramedics, [about] rats in proximity to our base,” said Dave Bryant, vice-president, CUPE Local 5191. 

“The reason the union is bringing it forth now is because it is a health and safety risk, not only to the paramedics, but to the occupants of these encampments,” Bryant said. “Rats, as we know, cause rapid property damage and carry infectious disease through bites, urine, stool, bugs on their fur, et cetera.”

He also said, while he only learned about the issue on Wednesday, he was disgusted to learn the region has known about it since last Spring.

“Well, apparently the rat problem was identified about a year ago when the region did conduct a risk assessment,” said Bryant. “There were some minor preventative measures taken, but not adequate and never followed up on — allowing the rat population to breed and spread throughout the encampment.”

Since then, Bryant said the rats have also become a blight on the EMS station at Weber and Water streets, essentially kitty-corner to the encampment.

“The problem here in this specific location is that there's just been a lack of prevention all around and it's really starting to spread,” he said. “Prevention is key, you know, the homelessness crisis in itself is due to a lack of prevention.”

Asked for an update, the Region of Waterloo offered only a statement.

“Pest control has been in place for a number of months at the encampment at 100 Victoria Street, providing weekly site visits,” it reads. “As part of the pest control program, a third-party contractor regularly monitors the Paramedic Services detachment on Weber Street.”

It goes on to say, “Paramedic Services Leadership is aware of the concerns, and appropriate steps regarding pest control have been identified for the station.”