A landlord on Park Ave. in Chatham has been charged for having expired smoke alarms, following a blaze on Thursday.
Chatham-Kent & Emergency Services officials say firefighters from Station #1 & #2 in Chatham responded rapidly just before 2 p.m. on Thursday to a fire on Park Ave.
Crews arrived on scene to find a grease fire in the kitchen of the home.
Firefighters entered the house and quickly knocked down the fire to prevent it from spreading.
Crews discovered the home’s smoke alarms were expired and requested a CKFES prevention officer attend the scene.
Chatham-Kent & Emergency Services officials say the landlord of the home was ticketed with a $360 fine.
“Since March 1, 2006, it is the law for all Ontario homes to have a working smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas,” Scott Sproule, fire prevention officer, said in a press release.
“We are committed to maintaining the safety of our community and take a robust approach to landlords protecting their tenants.”
Chatham-Kent & Emergency Services urges all residents to ensure they have working smoke alarms and to check the date. Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms need be replaced.
“Pressing the button ensures that alarms are electrically charged, this is important. However just as crucial is the date on those alarms, which indicates the age of the unit and sensors,” stated Whitney Burk, public educator.
“Both battery operated and hardwired alarms expire. If the date is over 10 years ago or you can’t find a date at all – replace your alarms immediately.”
If you need assistance protecting your home from smoke and carbon monoxide, request a CHiRP Check by calling 519-360-1998 or visit www.ckfes.ca.
