A property owner has been charged for alleged safety violations, resulting in $15,000 in fines, says the City of Red Deer.
On Thursday, the City of Red Deer issued a news release stating emergency services fire safety code officers conducted “numerous” inspections at apartment buildings located at 40 Cardinal Ave. and 7156 Park Ave. between October 2021 and February 2022.
After numerous inspections were not complied with, Safety Codes Act Orders were issued to the owner of both buildings, R.K.L Construction LTD, according to the city release.
“When we conduct fire inspections, our top priority is to ensure the safety of residents living in these properties,” said RDES Fire Marshal Tim Kivell.
“We work with property owners to identify and correct safety issues. Unfortunately in some cases we must use the legal system to address ongoing negligence that creates unsafe living situations.”
the property owner was charged with 14 Safety Codes Act violations. On Nov. 23, R.K.L. Construction Ltd. pleaded guilty to seven of these charges in Red Deer Provincial Court:
- Failed to comply with order
- Failed to maintain exit signs
- Failed to maintain emergency lighting
- Failed to maintain closures
- Fire Alarm System Records not provided
- Improper storage of combustible materials
- Wedged open fire separation door
These seven charges resulted in $15,000 in fines. The maximum fine under the Safety Codes Act is $100,000 for each offence and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months.
RDES is reminding property owners that they are responsible for ensuring their buildings meet the minimum requirements under the Safety Codes Act and the National Fire Code of Canada 2019 (Alberta Edition), including providing the required fire protection features in residential buildings, not allowing activities that might cause fire hazards in and around buildings, and providing required ongoing maintenance to ensure safety of residents.
Landlords and renters can request information on these safety code requirements by emailing prevention@reddeer.ca.
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