Clarington Emergency and Fire Services (CEFS) are helping homeowners pick up the pieces after an accidental fire destroyed their home on Sunday afternoon in Newtonville, according to a Clarington statement.
The homeowners were able to escape safely but lost everything in the fire. CEFS has asked the Red Cross to assist.
Firefighters were called to the Newtonville home at 4:37 pm. Five pumpers and five tanker trucks were dispatched, with around 30 firefighters on the scene. A firefighter suffered from smoke inhalation but was medically cleared later.
“The fire started accidentally in the garage and spread quickly into the home. The home is located among thick trees and difficult to access. It’s important to remind residents that smoke alarms save lives. Smoke alarms are often your first line of defence and provide a warning system. Seconds count in emergencies; you need to be prepared,” said Clarington Fire Chief Gord Weir.