Local fine prompts reminder of the cost of smoke and CO alarm non-compliance

A 49 year old man from St. Marys was charged $360 for intentionally disabling a smoke alarm. The recent fine has prompted the St. Marys Fire Department to remind residents once again about the importance of smoke and CO alarms, and how being non-compliant with the Fire Code can cost not only in fines, but in lives.

“Ideally we focus on education first.” Says St. Marys Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “Unfortunately, in some cases a fine is necessary as disabling a smoke alarm is not only reckless, but puts lives in danger. Thankfully no one was injured as a result of this individual’s non-compliance, but in the event of a fire this situation likely would have resulted in a much more devastating outcome.”

In light of this event, the St. Marys Fire Department is urging all residents to install and regularly test all smoke and CO alarms and never disable them. Working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms will help you escape a house fire and save lives. No reason for disabling an alarm is worth that risk.

It is the law that every home in Ontario must have a working smoke alarm on every storey and outside all sleeping areas. Under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, the failure to comply with the Fire Code smoke alarm requirements can result in fines for homeowners.

For more information on smoke alarms and how to keep your family safe in the event of a fire, please visit the Town’s website.  

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For media inquiries:
Beverly Brenneman, Corporate Communications Manager
519-284-2340, ext. 432 | bbrenneman@town.stmarys.on.ca