CALGARY -- A man has confined himself inside a northeast home and Calgary police are asking Pineridge residents to take shelter or avoid the area while investigators work to resolve the situation.

Police were called to the 600 block of Pineland Road N.E. on Thursday morning for reports of property damage.

Upon further investigation, they determined a man, who is believed to be armed, had barricaded himself inside a basement suite and was threatening to shoot others.

They confirm that several shots were fired from inside the suite into the community at about 11:30 a.m.

Attempts to force the man out of the suite have failed, police say, and entering the home presents a "significant risk" to officers and the suspect alike.

"We completely understand the impact this situation is having on the surrounding community and are working to resolve it as quickly as possible," said Supt. Ryan Ayliffe with the Calgary Police Service in a release. "Our primary goal is always to preserve the life and safety of the public, people in crisis and our officers. We ask for continued patience as we try to bring this to a peaceful end."

Police are asking residents near the area, who are currently at home, to remain in their homes until further notice and to take direction from officers at the scene.

Those returning home are being advised to avoid the area and roads surrounding the home connected to the investigation have been blocked off to traffic.

"We will let residents know through the media and social media as soon as it is safe to return home and stop sheltering in place," Ayliffe said.

Buses have been brought in to the local fire hall for people who need a place to shelter.