In Alberta, a judge has called on the provincial government to establish minimum safety standards for clothing donation bins following the tragic deaths of three individuals who became trapped inside while attempting to retrieve items. Justice Jayme Williams conducted a review of these incidents, which occurred between 2017 and 2019 in Calgary and Medicine Hat. Her report highlights that while donation bins provide significant community benefits, safety must not be compromised. The investigation revealed that the bins can be made safer with appropriate measures. The individuals, who were experiencing homelessness, died from neck compression or suffocation after getting stuck. Justice Williams emphasized the need for consistent safety standards across Alberta to prevent future tragedies.
