Owner charged: failing to provide a smoke alarm

The owner of the property at 24 Free Dr., Orillia, has been charged under the Provincial Offences Act for failing to provide a smoke alarm contravening the Ontario Fire Code. The charge comes as a result of an investigation into a fire by the Orillia Fire Department. 

In the early morning hours of May 27, 2014, the Orillia Fire Department responded to a 9-1-1 call for the report of a fire in a single-family dwelling located at 24 Free Dr., Orillia. Fire fighters discovered a growing fire with intense heat. Fire crews extinguished the fire that originated in the kitchen and ventilated the structure.

“Homeowners must understand that it is their responsibility to ensure that working smoke alarms are installed on each storey of the home,” said Orillia Fire Chief Ralph Dominelli. “Failing to provide or maintain smoke alarms where required will result in charges. Penalties upon conviction under the Provincial Offences Act range from $235 for a Part I ticketable offence to a maximum $50,000 and/or up to a year in prison if charged under Part III of the Act”.

Smoke alarms, if properly installed and maintained, provide early warning to occupants of an imminent fire danger. Home owners have a responsibility to provide and keep smoke alarms in operating condition.  Lives depend on it.

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Ralph Dominelli
Orillia Fire Chief
Orillia Fire Department
705-325-5215
rdominelli@orillia.ca

Jennifer Ruff
Manager of Communications
705-325-8929
705-238-9209 (cell)
jruff@orillia.ca