A Trent Hills property owner has been fined $700 after an investigation into a January residential fire found there were no working smoke alarms in the rental unit.
Firefighters responded to 158 Cromwell Street on Jan. 16, 2026, after flames broke out on the second floor. Occupants escaped with help from neighbours before crews arrived. Firefighters contained the blaze to the unit, preventing it from spreading to adjoining homes.
The investigation found the property owner had failed to maintain working smoke alarms, resulting in a charge under the Ontario Fire Code. The owner was fined $700 in Ontario Court of Justice.
Trent Hills Fire Department officials are reminding landlords that working smoke alarms are required on every storey and outside sleeping areas. Residents are also encouraged to test alarms regularly and report any faulty equipment to their landlords.
(Richard Evans)
