A Red Deer motel has been charged with multiple safety code violations.
Between June 2023 and January 2024, Emergency Services Fire Safety Codes Officers conducted five inspections of the building.
Numerous inspections were not complied with, and Safety Codes Act Orders were issued to the owner, resulting in $40,000 in fines.
“We work with property owners to provide ample opportunity to identify and correct safety issues,” said Fire Marshal Tim Kivell, Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES). “However, when property owners demonstrate an unwillingness to maintain their buildings in a safe manner, we must use the legal system to address the ongoing negligence creating unsafe living situations.”
As a result of non-compliance, the owner was charged with Safety Codes Act violations, including:
-
Failure to comply with Safety Codes Act Order
-
Failure to install monitoring on the Fire Alarm System
-
Fire Alarm System not being maintained
-
Sprinkler System not being maintained in conformance with the National Fire Code
-
Smoke alarms are not being maintained as per the National Fire Code
-
Failing to provide inspection, testing, and maintenance records in accordance with the National Fire Code
On Aug. 1, the property owner was found guilty of all offences in Red Deer Provincial Court and ordered to pay $40,000 in fines.
The maximum fine under the Safety Codes Act for each offence is $100,000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months.
RDES reminds property owners that they are responsible for ensuring their buildings meet the minimum requirements under the Safety Codes Act and the National Fire Code.
Property owners must provide the required fire protection in residential buildings, not allow activities that might cause fire hazards in and around buildings and provide required ongoing maintenance to ensure the safety of residents.