Woodstock Fire Department briefs

A fire at Food Co Halal Market resulted in $20,000 in damage. The store at Dundas and Parkinson remains closed and fire officials say the incident was caused by an overloaded electrical outlet. (Contributed photo)

Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Fire Code charges following Bysham Street fire

The Woodstock Fire Department responded to a fire with smoke coming from a paint booth at Jeamar Winches Corp., located at 34 Bysham Park Drive, on the afternoon of Thursday, Nov. 13. Crews arrived within minutes and quickly brought the fire under control but property damage is estimated at $120,000.

Following a post-fire inspection by the Fire Prevention Division, several violations of the Ontario Fire Code were uncovered. Due to the fire incident being directly related to these violations, five charges under the Ontario Fire Code have been filed under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act (FPPA). The offences are related to failure to check and clean the spray booth and filters/ducts where combustible paints are being used, failure to prepare records of corrective measures, failure to prepare a fire safety plan, and failure to inspect and maintain the fire suppression system within the spray booth.

"The charges laid in connection with this fire incident emphasize the Woodstock Fire Department’s commitment to community safety through Fire Code enforcement,” said Fire Chief Jeff Slager.

“We will continue to work diligently to ensure that Woodstock business owners and landlords understand their responsibilities, thereby ensuring the safety of their employees, customers, and facilities.”

Fire officials say the company is working towards gaining code compliance and making repairs. The owner is scheduled for a first court appearance in January to answer to the charges.

According to FPPA, the maximum penalty for a first offence against an owner or business is up to a $500,000 fine. A director or officer of a corporation who knowingly allows violations faces up to a $50,000 fine and a jail sentence of up to one year.

Electrical Fire at a Dundas Street Store

Woodstock firefighters were dispatched to a report of a fire with visible smoke at 992 Dundas Street on the evening of Friday, Nov. 21. Crews arrived within minutes and entered the Food Co Halal Market and were quickly able to bring the fire under control.

An investigation determined that a failure of an overloaded electrical outlet caused the fire, resulting in an estimated $20,000 in property damage. The proximity of combustible materials being stored in the fire location contributed to the increased spread of damage.

“Ensuring that electrical systems are not overloaded beyond their capacity is a vital part of fire safety. Regularly inspect all electrical cords and devices for load capacity and damage,” explained Slager.

“This inspection is especially important at this time of year when seasonal lights are being used. While checking these systems, also ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working,” he added.