Smoke Alarms

Smoke Alarm Charges Laid In Connection
With 175,000 Dollar London Blaze

An unattended candle that started a fire March 31st has resulted in further consequences for residents of a semi-detached home on Inverary Road. The investigation by London fire officials revealed that smoke alarms had been disabled on the upper and main levels of the home and there was no alarm present in the basement. Ontario law requires that there be a working smoke alarm on every level of a dwelling and outside every sleeping area.

“The number of fires started by candles continues to be a concern in London”, says Deputy Fire Chief Dan Oldridge. “In this case, an individual fell asleep beside a lit candle that was sitting at the bedside. The investigation found that the candle had been knocked over, igniting combustible materials.” Chief Oldridge added, “The lack of working smoke alarms could easily have resulted in injury or death in this case. Far too many people are still not getting the message that smoke alarms are your best early warning in the event of fire. Everyone needs to ensure they have working smoke alarms!”

With full support from the Ontario Fire Marshal, the London Fire Department continues to step up its enforcement and prosecution of smoke alarm violations. The law provides for fines of up to 50,000 dollars and up to one year in jail, or both, for those who do not comply with smoke alarm regulations.

For further information, contact
Deputy Fire Chief Dan Oldridge
519 661-2500 ext. 6514