The number of arsons is skyrocketing in Winnipeg, jumping from 200 incidents in 2007 to 583 instances in 2012, according to a new report.

Oliver, a resident who didn’t want his last name used, was surveying damage Friday at his neighbour’s house on Manitoba Avenue following a garage fire, one of three overnight blazes.

“In the night like a terrorist – like a terrorist attack,” he said.

The city report said 25 per cent of the arson cases are related to garbage.

“I would submit that it’s even higher because they’ll cite things like ‘driveway fire.’ Well, that driveway fire was probably garbage on people’s property that was set on fire,” said Coun. Ross Eadie (Mynarski).

Many of the arson cases have occurred in his ward. He said the blazes are on the rise because of bulk waste being set on fire.

The city has increased the amount for fines for dumping furniture and other debris and a plan is being worked on by officials to clear bulk waste.

People living in neighbourhoods affected by the arson cases said they hope that happens soon to curb fires.

“We can’t live peacefully. You’re always scared (about) what’s going on while you sleep,” said Oliver.

Last year, 90 suspects were arrested or cautioned for 73 of the 583 arsons in 2012.

A total of 98 repeat offenders have been identified since 2007.

Marc Proulx, fire prevention officer, said residents can take steps to help protect against fires.

He suggests putting out garbage as close to the pickup time as possible, and watching out for unexpected trash pileups.

“Garages that are side by side with a narrow walkway and wind accumulates paper in between there, so that’s what we’re asking people to watch out for,” he said.

Keeping shrubs and trees trimmed near buildings is another recommendation to make sure it’s not easy for someone to keep out of sight.

“Motion-detecting lights work well – activities like (arson) don’t do well if there’s a lot of light,” he said.

The city also plans to monitor repeat offenders through school programs and probation.

Eadie said there have already been 200 arson cases reported this year.

- with reports from Jeff Keele and Alesia Fieldberg