A Blue Mountains resident pleaded guilty in provincial offences court on Monday, May 25 to charges laid by the fire department for not installing working smoke alarms on all levels of a home.

A fire in the home earlier this year prompted an investigation, which showed the Ontario Fire Code violation. 

This non-compliance came with a $5,000 fine, something the Justice called an individual and general deterrent for failing to follow proper installation and maintenance requirements of smoke alarms.

The Blue Mountains Fire Prevention Officer A.J. Lake, in light of this recent charge, urges residents to ensure their home is equipped with working smoke alarms outside of sleeping areas and on all levels including the basement. Lake also encourages tenants to sign smoke alarm agreements with their landlords. Copies of the agreement are available from Lake.

Fire prevention questions or smoke alarm concerns can be directed to The Blue Mountains Fire Department during normal business hours at 519-599-5411. Lake provides education in fire prevention, early warning and escape planning to The Blue Mountains residents.

Charges, such as those laid recently, can be avoided by asking questions and seeking inspections before an emergency response is needed.

Have a safe and happy summer. Install smoke alarms in your home, cottage, RV and boat and test them monthly. Also, plan and practise your escape plan as a family so everyone knows what to do and where to go when the smoke alarm sounds. It's such a small cost and effort for a huge investment in your family's safety.