Fire Department enforcement collects $30,000 in fines

The fire prevention division of Welland Fire and Emergency Services (WFES) continues to inspect properties across the City of Welland to increase the level of fire safety in the community. Two convictions in Provincial Offences Court were recently registered against two properties in the city for fire safety violations.

On December 9, 2020, a re-inspection occurred at 122 Hellems Avenue, City of Welland. The purpose of the re-inspection was to verify compliance with a previously issued inspection order, issued pursuant to the Fire Protection and Prevention Act (FPPA). The order required, among other things, the installation of a fire alarm system for the building. During the re-inspection, it was discovered the order had not been complied with. As a result, the Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) initiated a prosecution against the property owner(s) for failing to comply with an inspection order, which is an offence pursuant to the FPPA. On June 22, 2023, the property owner was convicted for failing to comply with an inspection order, receiving a fine of $20,000 plus court costs and victim fine surcharge. WFES can now report that a monitored fire alarm system has now been installed at the property.

On February 21, 2023, WFES attended the property 3 Cross Street, City of Welland to conduct a fire safety inspection. During this inspection, it was discovered that the fire and life safety systems for the building had not received the necessary maintenance required by the Ontario Fire Code for several years. Due to the seriousness of the situation, a prosecution was initiated against the property owner, including direction to have the fire and life safety systems serviced at the building. On June 22, 2023, the property owner was convicted for failing to maintain the fire and life safety systems in the building as required by the Ontario Fire Code and fined $10,000 plus court costs and victim fine surcharge. WFES can now report that the fire and life safety systems in the building have been serviced and are operational.

WFES reminds residents and property owners that compliance with the Ontario Fire Code is mandatory. WFES implores residents to take the necessary steps to ensure their properties are fire safe. Questions regarding fire safety can be directed to the fire prevention division by emailing fireprevention@welland.ca

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Adam Eckhart, Fire Chief and CEMC
Welland Fire and Emergency Services
905-735-1700 x2400
adam.eckhart@welland.ca