File image

Fireplace may be cause of $50,000 Newtonville blaze

Following a fire in Newtonville Monday night, Clarington’s Fire Chief is reminding residents to remove any snow accumulated around fire hydrants.

“Fire can quickly grow in size, and seconds count. By making sure all fire hydrants are fully accessible, you are helping our fire crews access the hydrant quickly so they can save your home and property,” said Fire Chief Mariano Perini.

Clarington Emergency and Fire services received a call at 9:14 pm about a fire in a residential building under construction in Newtonville. Crews were dispatched, with around 20 firefighters and six trucks on scene. An Ontario Provincial Police patrol saw the smoke and called the fire in. Upon arrival, fire crews began an aggressive, offensive attack stopping the fire from spreading. It appears that a gas fireplace may be responsible for the fire, but it’s not clear what happened. Damage is estimated at around $50,000, said a statement.

“With six fires over the past month, I want to remind residents to be more vigilant. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Talk with your kids about an emergency escape plan. While the house in Newtonville was unoccupied, fire remains a huge threat. Don’t be complacent; protect your family,” added Chief Perini.

Create a home escape plan and practise it regularly. Fire safety begins with you. Find more fire safety tips at www.clarington.net/FireSafety.

Ajax Fire reminds residents to clear snow from hydrants

Ajax Fire and Emergency Services too is reminding building owners, landlords and residents, to clear snow and ice away from fire hydrants. The clearing of snow and ice from around both private and municipal hydrants is the responsibility of the individual property owners.

In addition, during the winter months, home and business owners are asked to clear snow and ice from driveways, walkways, fire access routes, exit doors, exterior pathways leading from exit doors, fire escapes, furnace vents, hot water heater vents and fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections.

“Help our firefighters help you and make sure they can quickly locate and access fire hydrants. There should be a 1 metre (3 ft.) clearance around the hydrant. By keeping the hydrants clear of snow and ice, you could help prevent a fire from spreading and potentially save a life,” said Shelley Langer, Fire Prevention Inspector.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

Motel gun call reveals ‘five young persons’ in drugs ring

Durham presses Ontario to fund Bowmanville train project

Waterfront Trail closed for construction upgrades

Durham’s very own K9 Flex upholds the law

Covid Update: Total Durham case count crosses 50,000

Share with:


Leave a Reply