Tenants evacuated from the Care Centre

Cornwall, Ontario – Cornwall Fire Services (CFS) took action to prioritize fire safety in the community following complaints about a building located at 510 Second St. in Cornwall, which operates as the “Care Center”. CFS has conducted several inspections and identified numerous serious violations of the Ontario Fire Code. These violations increase the risk of injury to occupants in the event of a fire emergency.

Due to these significant fire and life safety concerns, the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal granted CFS authorization to close the property. CFS will continue to work with the owner to ensure that fire safety issues in the building are addressed.

The City of Cornwall’s Human Services Department staff was on site Friday to support tenants who were seeking alternative accommodations. They have been provided with information regarding available options. Tenants who require support for relocation can also enquire with Human Services at 613-933-6282 ext. 2309. The City of Cornwall’s Command Centre vehicle was also present to provide assistance to residents of the premises.

Fire Chief Matthew Stephenson issued a statement reminding all Cornwall residents to ensure they have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms installed and have practiced home escape planning. CFS staff are available to assess fire safety compliance and ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly located and operational at any time. Safety assessments and fire inspections can be arranged by calling 613-930-2787 (2395) during business hours.

This information is available on the City’s website at www.cornwall.ca.